The November flowers of the month are the beautiful chrysanthemums also known as mums. Their bloom season ranges from late summer into early winter. They come in a variety of bright colors sure to liven up your home just in time for Thanksgiving!
Chrysanthemum meaning:
Chrysanthemums have a variety of meanings depending on the country and culture they are in.
In Asia they symbolize life and rebirth. In Europe the chrysanthemum signifies sympathy and is commonly used in funerals. In America they signify respect and honor. In general they symbolize happiness, love, longevity and joy. Depending on their color their meaning will differ.
Historical meaning and Common Use:
Chrysanthemums were first found in China, then gradually traveled all throughout Europe in the 1600’s and arrived in the U.S. in colonial times. They are now one of the most popular cut flowers in all kinds of floral arrangements.
They are named after their original golden color (the Greek prefix “-anthemion” means golden. The flowers have different varieties, some looking like large pom poms, others like compact buttons and even like mounded cushions.
They have earned many meanings throughout history since they are part of so many cultures.
They are the November Birth flower, the 13th wedding anniversary gift and the official flower of the city of Chicago.
In Chinese art they are one of the four gentlemen representing the seasons, representing Autumn. In Japan they are a symbol of royalty.
It’s said that a single chrysanthemum petal placed at the bottom of a wine glass encourages a long and healthy life.
How to care for chrysanthemums in your home:
Cut off about half an inch from the bottom of the stems.
Strip off any foliage from the stems to keep the water as clean as possible and to reduce the bad odor that comes from them.
Place the flowers in a vase of clean room temperature water.
Add flower food to the vase. If you do not have any flower food add half a teaspoon of sugar, a teaspoon of lemon juice and a few drops of bleach to make a homemade substitute.
Clean and change the water regularly to ensure the chrysanthemums last as long as possible.