Chrysanthemums

Steve Smith

Vivero de Las Casicas

Botany

• Genus:Chrysanthemum• Type species:Chrysanthemum indicum (since 1999)• 30 species defined• Herbaceous perennial plant• Grows between 50 and 150 cm tall• 13 bloom forms• 140 recognised varieties• 1,000’s hybrids & cultivars

History

• Cultivated in China in 15th century BC

• Introduced to Japan in 8th century AD

• Introduced to Europe in 17th century– Named from Greek word χρυσός chrysous,

"golden" (the colour of the original flowers), and ἄνθεμον -anthemon, meaning flower.

Growing

• Sow seeds in December

• Propagate softwood cuttings in spring

• Divide established plants in autumn

Maintenance

• Spray regularly against:– Aphids & Earwigs– Mildew & White Rust– Lepidoptera

• Regular moderate feed & water

• Cut back & mulch after flowering

• Divide every 3 to 5 years

Uses

• Ornamental

• Culinary

• Insecticide

Mosquito Repellent

• Cut flowers when gone to seed

• Dry for 2-3 days

• Pulverise

• Add to oil or water

• Use little and often

Mosquito Repellent

• Cut flowers when gone to seed• Dry for 2-3 days• Pulverise• Add to oil or water• Use little and often

• Also works for Flies and Fleas• Harmful to fish

Questions?