Introduction
The plant Chrysanthemum morifolium belongs to the family Asteraceae (composite) and originated in China and Japan. This plant is not only known for its beautiful flowers but also is an important medicinal plant and is a major source of natural products like flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and other essential oils (1). Bedside this mum plant is one of the best flowering or seasonal plants for removing air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from the environment thus also plays a major role as an air-purifying plant. the following article is therefore all about How to take care of the Mum plant and its other properties.
Botanical description
Height
Herbaceous perennial shrub, up to 1 meter tall and erect in posture.
Leaves
They are pubescent and covered with fine hair, olive green in color with a petiole of 1-2 cm long.
Stem
The stem is mostly unbranched and is erect in structure sometimes procumbent.
Flower
They are creamy yellow in color (2).
How to take care of Mum plant (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
Light
Full sunlight and semi-sun. This plant grows well under bright light but avoids midday light as the high temperature may age the bloom prematurely.
Temperature
60-65 degrees F (16-18 degrees Celcius) during the daytime and 45-50 degrees F (7-10 degrees C) during the night is the most appropriate temperature.
Water
Moist, well-drained, and fertile loamy soil is good for its healthy growth.
Care
During the growing season, adequate water is necessary. feed with complete fertilizers weekly.
Propagation method
The best way of propagation is via stem cutting.
Pests and other problems
Aphids and spider mites may attack when the air is too warm and dry. Other types of diseases may occur are white rust and white or yellow spot on the underside of the leaves.
Medicinal importance
This plant is a major source of many essential oils and other secondary metabolites. It has been found to possess antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory activities (1).
Some of the few medicinal properties of the plant Chrysanthemum morifolium are (3)
- Anti-inflammatory
- Increase the immunity of the body thus strengthening the immune system
- Strengthens bones
- Prevent chronic diseases
- Improve eyesight
- Increase the metabolic rate
- maintains the cardiovascular health
- relaxes the nerves
- Treats cough and cold
- detoxify the body