GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum × morifolium (Ramat.) Hemsl. · Perennial

Hardiness

—

Position

Full sun

Height × Spread

50–150 cm × 10–100 cm

Soil

Fertile, moist but well-drained peat-free compost or soil (RHS genus guide). In containers use peat-free John Innes No 2 in a pot at least 30 cm diameter (RHS growing guide). Mulch with well-rotted garden compost or manure.

Flowering

September–November

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats and horses (ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/chrysanthemum). Toxic principles: sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins and other potential irritants. RHS does not publish a species-level toxicity statement. Keep cut flowers and garden plants out of reach of browsing pets; wash hands after handling cut flowers.

The Gardening Year

🌱 Sow

🪴 Plant out

🌸 In flower

✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Chrysanthemum white rust: Remove and bin affected leaves (do not compost). Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Choose resistant cultivars. In confirmed outbreaks, contact the RHS or Defra Plant Health for current UK statutory guidance.

Powdery mildew: Mulch to keep roots moist; water at the base rather than overhead; improve air circulation; remove badly affected leaves.

Grey mould and other fungal rots (Botrytis cinerea and allies): Improve air flow; avoid overhead watering; remove affected material; do not overwinter in stagnant indoor conditions; lift and store stools in late autumn.

Viruses (Chrysanthemum mosaic virus and others): No cure. Remove and bin affected plants; control insect vectors (aphids); disinfect tools between plants; source new stock from clean suppliers.

Aphids: Hand removal, soft soap spray, encourage natural predators (ladybirds, lacewings, hoverflies) outdoors.