Chrysanthemum - Dendranthema. Well known as Pot Mums! 

The Plant: Dark green leaves topped with abundant daisy like flowers Chrysanthemums come in a variety of strong colours with a long flowering period. Generally the houseplants are around 30cm high, with single or double flowers.

Its needs: As Chrysanthemums are usually bought ready potted there is no need to worry about potting mix, but any compost will do as plant is generally not kept from year to year. A cool room temperature, e.g. 10-15 C prolongs the flowering period, but plant will tolerate warmer rooms. No extra humidity required, and Chrysanthemums can be placed in any position within the room.

Care: Keep Pot Mums moist at all times, feeding not necessary. Deadhead old flowers to maintain tidy looking plant. Keep in a light airy place and watch out for powdery mildew on foliage

Good for: A very popular houseplant to give as a gift, not usually expensive, and cheerfully bright flowers atop dark green foliage. Easy to maintain. Most people discard Chrysanthemums after flowering period is over. It is possible to plant them out in the garden in spring or summer, which should produce autumn-flowering tall Chrysanthemums, however, not all plants survive the transition.

Houseplant Chrysanthemums have usually been treated with a chemical dwarfing agent. This dwarfing habit reduces if kept for further year or planted outdoors.

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