Fall’s Favorite Flower

“If you would be happy for a lifetime, grow Chrysanthemums.” (a Chinese philosopher)

With the start of fall on Tuesday, we will soon welcome crisp mornings, changing leaves, pumpkin-flavored everything, and fall flowers. Probably the most notable fall flower is the chrysanthemum, or “mum” as they are commonly known.

Chrysanthemums were first cultivated in China as an herb or for medical use. Legend has it the flower possessed the power of life. The flower was also popular with the Japanese, who were so enamored with it they gave it the status of royalty. Today, chrysanthemums have many uses, including ornamental, culinary, insecticidal, and they have even been known to reduce indoor air pollution. For more on the history of chrysanthemums, click here. To learn how to best plant and care for your own chrysanthemums, click here.