COMMON NAMES
• Chrysanthemum
• Mum
• Florist's chrysanthemum/mum
• Garden chrysanthemum/mum
• Hardy garden chrysanthemum/mum
• Florist's daisy
BOTANICAL NAME
• Chrysanthemum × morifolium
(formerly Dendranthema × grandiflorum)
An Ancient History
Chrysanthemums have a long and beautiful history and have
been treasured by mankind for thousands of years. ey were
first cultivated centuries ago in China and used primarily as
a culinary herb. Young shoots and petals were used in food
dishes, and petals and leaves were brewed into teas. Nearly
every part of these plants has been used medicinally in
China. e essence of the flower was believed to possess
the power of life, which is why the symbolism of "life" is
attached to these flowers in Chinese culture.
Chrysanthemums were introduced into Japan sometime in
the eighth century, and during the 12th century, Emperor
Go-Toba chose the flower as his personal emblem. To this
day, a 16-petaled chrysanthemum icon remains the "Imperial
Seal of Japan," designating the emperor and members of
the Imperial family, and the emperor's throne is known as
the "Chrysanthemum rone." In addition, Japan's highest
honor for distinguished service to the nation is the "Supreme
Order of the Chrysanthemum," and the country also
celebrates a national holiday, "National Chrysanthemum
Day" (a.k.a. the "Festival of Happiness"), annually on Sept. 9.
Chrysanthemums—"kiku" in Japanese—are also depicted
on the country's coinage and passports.
Over time, chrysanthemums made it to the Western world.
While they may seem like they've been available in the
United States forever, they didn't arrive until around 1798.
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