Crown Daisy
chrysanthemum coronarium
Also known as: ["Garden Chamomile","Crown Dandelion","Stinking Chamomile"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers, often used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Chrysanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Chrysanthemum coronarium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds or containers in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Pinch back tips every 4–6 weeks during growing season; deadhead flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; apply evenly around the base.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back growing tips with fingers or shears; cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth, remove spent flowers, and maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tool.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Chrysanthemum coronarium. The pyrethrin compounds can cause irritation, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chrysanthemum coronarium can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of pyrethrin compounds. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChrysanthemum coronarium contains pyrethrin compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chrysanthemum coronarium edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and flowers are commonly used in salads and other culinary dishes.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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