Chrysanthemum

Image by Gardening Know How, via Nikki Tilley Chrysanthemums are flowering herbaceous plants but are mums annual or perennial? The answer is both. There are several species of chrysanthemum, with some being hardier than others. The perennial type are often called hardy mums. Whether your chrysanthemum will come back after winter depends upon which species you have. If you aren’t sure which one you purchased, the best thing is to wait until next spring and see if there are any renewing leaves poking up from the soil.

Chrysanthemums were cultivated in China as early as 15th century BC. The plants were used as herbs and the roots and leaves were eaten. The plant migrated to Japan several centuries later and thrived in the temperate climates of Asia. Today, the plant is a common fall garden sight and gift plant. One fascinating bit of chrysanthemum information is that its favorable reputation in the U.S. doesn’t translate to some European countries where it is known as a death flower. Instead of giving chrysanthemums for special occasions, they are laid over graves. There are so many types of chrysanthemum that they require a special classification system. This is based on one of the most unique facts about chrysanthemum flowers. The plant’s petals are actually florets with both sexual parts. There are both ray and disc florets and the classing system depends upon the type of florets as well as the growth for.