The Ultimate Guide to Chrysanthemums
Read time - 13 mins
A team of flower, style and design experts and enthusiasts. We love sharing advice on all things floral and offering top tips on expressing yourself and your emotions.
A team of flower, style and design experts and enthusiasts. We love sharing advice on all things floral and offering top tips on expressing yourself and your emotions.
Considered to be one of the most popular flowers in the world, second to roses, of course, chrysanthemums are so much more than a padding flower in a bouquet. These fluffy, vibrant blooms speak volumes, with special meanings depending on the colour you choose. Oh, and they’re revered by royalty. We’d say they’re pretty special.
There are plenty of varieties of this stunning flower to choose from, whether you prefer the bushy, fanned-out types or spider blooms featuring spindly petals with curled ends. And despite the rainbow of colours available today, the name chrysanthemum actually translates to ‘gold flower’, from the Greek words chrysos and anthemon. With a name like that, it’s no wonder this bloom deserves a place in your favourites.
Want to know more about beautiful chrysanthemum flowers, what they mean and how to care for them if you’re lucky enough to receive a bunch? We’ve got everything you need right here.
Short on time? Here’s the flower lowdown: Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are colourful flowers associated with joy, optimism and longevity, although their meaning varies by colour and culture. In UK gardens, they typically flower from September to November, and cut chrysanthemums are known for their impressively long vase life.
What are chrysanthemums?
Chrysanthemums, or ‘mums’ as they’re sometimes affectionately called, belong to the daisy family, Asteraceae. They originated in Asia and have been cultivated in China for centuries, before becoming an important flower in Japanese culture too.
And here’s something you might not know. Take a really close look at a chrysanthemum flower head and you’ll discover that what looks like one flower is actually made up of lots of tiny individual flowers. Clever, right?
They come in an enormous variety of colours, shapes and sizes, from neat little pompons to big, blousy blooms. They’re particularly at home in autumn too, when their rich colours really come into their own. Chrysanthemums are also traditional November birth flowers, giving you the perfect excuse to send a bunch to someone celebrating an autumn flower.
Types of chrysanthemums
Think you know a chrysanthemum when you see one? You might be surprised. These flowers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and some varieties look so different you’d hardly believe they were related.
Spray chrysanthemums
Bloom chrysanthemums
Pompon chrysanthemums
Spider chrysanthemums
Spray chrysanthemums
Bloom chrysanthemums
Pompon chrysanthemums
Spider chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemum meaning and symbolism
Chrysanthemums are generally believed to represent optimism and joy, with happiness and longevity also commonly linked to these cheerful flowers.
But, just like roses, the meaning can change depending on which colour you choose. Red is traditionally romantic, while yellow is much more cheerful. Chrysanthemum symbolism also changes around the world, so the same flower can mean something very different depending on where you give it.
Chrysanthemum meaning by colour
Pink chrysanthemum meaning
Pink chrysanthemums are said to represent longevity, honour and love. We think they’re also a lovely choice for surprising a friend or reminding someone how much they mean to you. With all those fluffy petals in shades from blush to bright pink, they certainly know how to make someone smile.
Red chrysanthemum meaning
Like all things red, this colour of chrysanthemum is believed to represent love and passion. Fancy giving the classic red rose a day off? Swap them for a just-as-beautiful bouquet featuring mums in shades of scarlet.
Yellow chrysanthemum meaning
Yellow is considered a traditional colour for chrysanthemum flowers, but it once carried rather gloomy connotations, symbolising sorrow or neglected love. Thankfully, things have brightened up since then. Yellow now makes us think of all things happy and sunny, so send these cheerful chrysanthemums when you’re thinking of someone, saying congratulations or simply want to perk them up.
White chrysanthemum meaning
Traditionally associated with mourning and remembrance in parts of Europe, white chrysanthemums are still chosen for funeral sprays and memorial flowers. They’re also said to symbolise devoted love and loyalty, giving these beautiful white flowers a softer meaning too.
Orange chrysanthemum meaning
Chrysanthemum flowers in fiery shades of orange are the perfect representation of all things autumn. Think crisp leaves, cosy evenings and those gorgeous golden colours outside. They make a particularly lovely addition to an autumn birthday bouquet.
Green chrysanthemum meaning
Green chrysanthemums are a little less traditional, which is exactly why we love them. Their bright, fresh colour is often associated with good fortune and joy, and they’re brilliant for adding an unexpected pop of colour to a bouquet.
Chrysanthemum meanings around the world
These flowers have travelled far and wide over the centuries, picking up plenty of traditions and symbolism along the way.
When are chrysanthemums in season?
Chrysanthemums really come into their own in autumn. In UK gardens, they typically flower from September to November, when their golden yellows, burnt oranges, bronzes and deep burgundies look right at home alongside all those changing leaves.
That makes them a gorgeous choice for autumn birthdays and seasonal celebrations. And while this is their natural flowering season here in the UK, chrysanthemums can often be available through florists at other times of the year too.
If you love filling your home with the changing hues of the season, take a look at our guide to autumn colours.
Chrysanthemum fun facts
Thought chrysanthemums were simply a filler flower? These little facts might make you look at them differently.
One flower head contains lots of tiny flowers
Look closely at the inside of your chrysanthemum and you’ll spot that what looks like one flower is actually made up of lots of teeny tiny individual flowers. Amazing, right?
Chrysanthemums have an impressive vase life
Chrysanthemums are known for being long-lasting cut flowers, which is one reason florists love working with them. Exactly how long they last depends on their freshness, variety, environment and the care you give them, but they certainly aren’t flowers that give up easily.
Chrysanthemums have a royal connection
Chrysanthemums became closely associated with Japan’s Imperial Family, and the flower appears on the Chrysanthemum Seal, the official emblem of the Emperor and the Imperial Household. A rather grand claim to fame for our fluffy friend.
Chrysanthemums are November birth flowers
Born in November? Chrysanthemums are your birth flowers. Their late-autumn flowering season makes them a natural fit for the month, while their associations with joy and longevity give them plenty of meaning for a birthday bouquet.
Some chrysanthemums are used for tea
Certain types of chrysanthemum are traditionally used to make chrysanthemum tea in parts of Asia, with the flowers steeped in hot water. Before you start raiding the nearest bouquet, though, florist chrysanthemums shouldn’t be assumed to be edible. Stick to flowers specifically grown and sold for culinary use.
Chrysanthemums are naturally insect-repellent
Chrysanthemums have a clever trick up their petals. They contain naturally occurring compounds called pyrethrins, which have insecticidal properties and are used in some insect-control products. What a hero!
When should you give chrysanthemums?
The better question might be: when shouldn’t you? With so many colours and meanings, chrysanthemums can suit all sorts of moments.
Birthday flowers
Chrysanthemums are especially meaningful birthday flowers for anyone born in November, as they’re the month’s traditional birth bloom. Choose sunny yellows, pretty pinks or fiery oranges for a joyful birthday bunch. And thanks to their reputation for staying power, they can keep the birthday feeling going that little bit longer.
Wedding flowers
Chrysanthemums don’t always get first billing when it comes to wedding flowers, but we think they deserve a shot. Single white varieties can give brides that lovely daisy-like look, while bigger bloom chrysanthemums add fullness and impact to larger arrangements. They’re also a popular choice for buttonholes, particularly for autumn weddings.
Chrysanthemums often receive a largely undeserved and rather bad press. When it comes to weddings, they are a great filler flower for large arrangements and can make your wedding budget go that little bit further. We find they are also a popular flower for buttonholes, especially for autumn weddings.
Smpathy and funeral flowers
Chrysanthemums’ large flower heads can create beautiful displays in wreaths and sprays. White chrysanthemums are also traditionally linked with remembrance and mourning in parts of Europe, making them a meaningful choice for funeral flowers and sympathy flowers.
Just because
Of course, you don’t need a big occasion to send chrysanthemums. Their cheerful colours and long-lasting nature make them lovely just because flowers too. Send them to say “thinking of you”, to perk someone up after a rubbish week or simply because you spotted a colour they’d love. Sometimes that’s reason enough.
How to arrange chrysanthemums at home
One of the best things about chrysanthemums is their versatility. They happily mix and match with flowers from different seasons, so there’s plenty of room to play.
In summer, combine pretty spray chrysanthemums with larger flowers for contrast, or arrange one variety en masse for a simple but seriously striking display. Come autumn, we love golden, bronze, burgundy, and orange shades.
Mixing chrysanthemum shapes can work beautifully too. Pair neat pompons with big blooms or spidery varieties and you’ll instantly add more texture and movement.
Fancy giving it a go? Our ultimate guide to flower arranging has plenty more tips.
Chrysanthemum care: How to make your flowers last
Cut the flower stems
Re-cut the flower stems before putting them in your vase. Try trimming them to slightly different lengths if you want to add a little height and variety to your display.
Grab a vase
Pop your flowers into a clean vase with fresh water and flower food. Remove any foliage that would otherwise sit below the waterline.
Watering
Change the water regularly, recutting the stems each time to help keep them fresh.
Handle with care
Handle those gorgeous flower heads with care, as larger blooms can be delicate. No one wants a balding chrysanthemum!
Remove faded flowers
Remove fading flowers, loose petals and tired foliage as you spot them, then keep your arrangement somewhere away from strong draughts, direct sunlight and heat.
Chrysanthemums require relatively little fuss once they’re happily settled in their vase. Keep an eye on the water, remove anything past its best and enjoy.
Get to know this not-so-basic bloom
Feeling clued up on this not-so-basic bloom? Don’t underestimate the humble chrysanthemum. From fluffy pompons to wonderfully wild spider varieties, these flowers bring colour, character and plenty of meaning to a bouquet.
Whether you’re celebrating a November birthday, letting someone know you’re thinking of them or simply fancy filling their day with flowers, chrysanthemums are more than up to the job. And our local florists know just how to make them shine.
Chrysanthemum FAQs
Chrysanthemums are generally associated with joy, optimism, happiness and longevity. But their meaning changes depending on their colour and where you are in the world. Red chrysanthemums, for example, can symbolise love, while white varieties are associated with remembrance in parts of Europe.
Yes, they are. ‘Mums’ is simply a shortened name for chrysanthemums, particularly common in North America. So if you’ve heard someone talking about mums flowers, they’re referring to the same fluffy, colourful blooms.
Chrysanthemum is the traditional birth flower for November, making it a particularly thoughtful choice for someone celebrating a November birthday. Choose their favourite colour or let your florist work their magic with a seasonal arrangement.
Chrysanthemums are known for being wonderfully long-lasting cut flowers. Exactly how long they last depends on how fresh they are, their variety and how they’re cared for. Regularly changing the water and trimming the stems will help keep them looking their best.
Chrysanthemums can be toxic to cats and dogs if eaten, so keep plants and bouquets somewhere curious paws can’t reach. If you think your pet has eaten part of a chrysanthemum, contact your vet for advice.
Certain chrysanthemum varieties are specifically grown for culinary use and are traditionally used in dishes and teas. However, chrysanthemums from a florist’s bouquet shouldn’t be assumed to be edible. Only eat flowers that have specifically been grown and sold for culinary use.
