Interesting Chrysanthemum flower facts

Of all the fresh flowers in the world, chrysanthemums are easily one of the favourites and florists try to keep as many in stock throughout the year as they can.  Regardless of the occasion, chrysanthemums are ideal when you want to send flowers.  Whether your fresh flower delivery is for somebody special or yourself, it’s always interesting to learn more about the flowers you buy and what makes them so special.

The name chrysanthemum comes from a combination of the Greek words chrysos, meaning gold, and anthos, meaning flower.  There are several types of chrysanthemums available today and, depending on the variety, they flower during different times of the year.  The more hardy varieties are known for blooming during the colder months.  This is why you will find different types of chrysanthemums at your florist depending on what season it is.  Chrysanthemums are associated with optimism, wealth, friendship and peace.  Like most other flowers, the red ones symbolize love.  Most white flowers are symbolic of some kind of purity and chrysanthemums are no exception.  White chrysanthemums symbolize truth.

Chrysanthemums are one of the world’s most cultivated flowers and, for this reason, they are very reasonably priced.  Due to the high demand and many uses for these flowers, florists try to keep them in stock at all times.  They aren’t likely to be the focal flowers in an arrangement but they make wonderful mass flowers.

What many people may not know is that chrysanthemums are considered to be tropical flowers and they are part of the largest family of flowering plants called asteraceae.  Chrysanthemums are divided into nine different categories and each flower is classified according to the way in which its petals are arranged.  In some flowers the petals fall downwards while others spray outwards.  If you pay close attention, you will also see that each flower is like a cluster of small flowers.  Chrysanthemums are also available in various sizes so they can be used in bouquets of different sizes.

Chrysanthemums were first brought to Japan by Buddhist monks in 400 AD.  This flower was so loved that they added it to the Imperial Crest.  The Japanese are known to still celebrate this flower by hosting annual exhibitions.  According to feng shui, chrysanthemums are associated with happiness and joy.

Chrysanthemum tea is a popular drink in Asia due to medicinal properties as well as its flavour. It is also really easy to make.  You simply need to steep the petals in hot water for about 10 minutes.  Chrysanthemum tea is used for treating fever, sore throats, inflammation and even acne.  There are also lotions and creams on the market that contain chrysanthemum properties.  Just like any treatment, even if it is herbal or natural, you should always make yourself aware of potential adverse reactions like skin irritation or mild stomach problems.

While this flower is suitable to be used in any flower arrangement for any occasion, it is associated with the month of November and the 13th wedding anniversary.  Therefore, if you or somebody you know celebrates their birthday in November or is celebrating their 13th anniversary, you should certainly consider including some chrysanthemums when you send flowers.  Red chrysanthemums can be sent if the recipient is your partner.  If you are looking for a potted plant rather than fresh cut flowers, you will be happy to know that chrysanthemums are also available in a potted variety.