All flowers
Chrysanthemum Wikimedia Commons
Asteraceae

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum

Longevity, joy, nobility (Japan); death (much of Europe).

Family
Asteraceae
Genus
Chrysanthemum
Native to
East Asia, Northeastern Europe
Bloom season
Fall
Type
herbaceous perennial
Height
30–90 cm
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, rich
Water
Regular
Hardiness
5–9
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Chrysanthemums have been cultivated in China since the 15th century BCE.
  • The chrysanthemum is the imperial seal of Japan — the Japanese throne is called the Chrysanthemum Throne.
  • NASA's Clean Air Study found chrysanthemums effective at removing ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde from indoor air.
  • In many European countries, chrysanthemums are associated with death and used only at funerals.
  • Chrysanthemum tea is a popular Chinese beverage believed to cool the body and clear the mind.

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Tea
  • Insect repellent (pyrethrum from C. cinerariifolium)