November's Plant of the Month -

Chrysanthemum 'Niche's Early October' 

-hardy mum

by Adrienne Roethling,

Director of Curation and Mission Delivery

Chrysanthemums date back to the early 15th century where in China, over 500 varieties were recorded.  Most species and cultivars derived from Asia and Europe and finally, were introduced to North America in the mid to late 1700’s.  Over the years, countless hardy and non-hardy mums have made their way into the market where Mums have been the main focus of many fall festivals.

 

            Chrysanthemum ‘Niche’s Early October’ is a hardy mum that has been growing in our garden since 2009.  New growth emerges in mid spring quickly growing to 2-3 feet tall and 5-6 feet wide by summer.  A mid-summer pruning will aid in maintaining its size and shape.  Starting in October and lasting well into December, single, 2 inch peach flowers quickly fade to pale yellow.  As cold weather approaches, the blue-green leaves take on a purple hue offering a nice contrast with the flower color.  Cut the stems back after flowering and allow this hardy mum to lie dormant until spring.

 

Join or renew your garden membership during the month of November and your name will be included in a drawing for a complimentary Chrysanthemum ‘Niche’s Early October’.