Which flower has an inferiority complex? Some mums

Admittedly, they’re not “it” flowers.

Chrysanthemums are not what you’d call sexy or even romantic. They’re not at the top of the list of elegant wedding flowers. Some would even peg them as dull.

But ya gotta love mums for trying! They’ve been around long enough, that’s for sure – these troopers date back to 15th century B.C. And the stalwart blooms don’t let their reputations get them down. Just the opposite: Mums are symbols of optimism and joy.

Salinas, Calif. recently picked the chrysanthemum as the city’s official flower. (Yes, there were several other candidates.) The mum was already the official flower of Chicago. In Japan, there’s an annual festival of happiness that celebrates mums.

So there.
Pink Mum

I like them because they’re low-maintenance and long lasting. I’ve had some on my desk that last for more than a week. And they come in a million colors.

Some of my florist friends tell me that newer varieties – spider mums (shown above) and button mums – are very popular with 20 and 30somethings right now.

And a single petal at the bottom of a wine glass is said to augur a long life. What’s not to like? On that note and b/c it’s Friday, let’s make a toast to this bloom – true blue and always there for you.

Mums rock!

Are mums friends or frumps? Drop me a line and give me your take.

Flower Fact of the Day: Remove mums’ foliage if it begins to droop or turn yellow. It’s not uncommon for the foliage to fade faster than the flowers.

Jacqueline - Editor

March 21, 2008

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Comments (3)

Comments

Bob

Nice Flower Picture.

Peter

I fully agree !
Did you ever see The Rainbow Chrysanthemum ?
( http://www.happy-roses.com/photogallery/chrysants/ )
Have flower fun..
Peter.

java

Chrysanthemums may not get the best reputation because their scent is not really all that pleasant, but their good looks and longevity as a cut flower makes them one of the best values, and many of them are very pretty!

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