El chrysanthemum coronarium, also known as oxeye, flower of the dead, mirabelles or little birdsChrysanthemum coronarium is an annual plant belonging to the Asteraceae (Compositae) family, highly prized for its ornamental value and its traditional culinary and medicinal applications. Native to Mediterranean and Asian regions, it is commonly found in fields, roadsides, gardens, and flower shops, attracting visitors with the beauty of its flowers and easy cultivation. Furthermore, in Asian culture, this wild chrysanthemum is widely used in both gastronomy and herbal medicine. If you want to delve into the world of this wonderful flower, learn about its care, cultivation methods, properties, uses, and pest and disease control, this comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about achieving the most spectacular Chrysanthemum coronarium in your home or garden.
Botanical characteristics and morphology
El chrysanthemum coronarium It is an annual herb native to Asia, especially China, but widely naturalized in the Mediterranean basin. Its height ranges from 30 to 100 centimeters, depending on growing conditions. It is characterized by:
- Branched stems, glabrous or slightly glaucous.
- Alternate leaves: The lower They are bipinnatisects and pinnatisect superiors, glaucous green in color, slightly fleshy and with a toothed or lobed margin.
- Inflorescence in rayed, daisy-like heads, with a deep yellow center and white or yellow petals depending on the variety. The flowers central are floccular and hermaphroditic, while the peripherals are hemiligulate and feminine.
- Fruit in achene, where the external ones have 2 to 3 wings, facilitating their dispersion by the wind.
- root system shallow, allowing rapid development but sensitive to compact and waterlogged soils.
El visual aspect Chrysanthemum coronarium is very attractive: its flowers stand out for their yellow centers surrounded by white or yellow-striped petals. Although they appear to be a single flower, each flowerhead is actually an aggregation of small flowers, which increases its attractiveness to pollinating insects and, consequently, its ecological value in gardens and open fields.
Cultural significance and traditional uses
El chrysanthemum coronarium It has a strong symbolic meaning in different cultures. In Spain, it is associated with All Saints' Day and funeral ceremonies, hence the name dead flowerIn Asian culture, especially in China and Japan, it is used as a symbol of longevity and purity. Furthermore, in traditional Chinese medicine, it is used for its digestive properties and in the preparation of infusions with calming effects.
In Japan and China, the leaves and young flowers This species is consumed in salads, stir-fried dishes, and soups. In cooking, it is known as Shungiku, a fundamental part of many Asian dishes, including popular woks and traditional chop suey. It's also consumed in infusions, using the young flowers for their mild flavor and therapeutic properties.
- medicinal applications: It is used to treat stomach pains and digestive problems, standing out for its content in carotene, Calcium, iron y Vitamin C.
- Ornamental value: Much appreciated for floral bouquets, decorative arrangements and as a cut flower due to the duration and resistance of its flowers.
- Pollinator attraction: Is a honey plant which encourages the presence of bees and butterflies in the garden, contributing to biodiversity and the maintenance of ecosystems.
Growing requirements: location, light and temperature
El chrysanthemum coronarium is a plant that adapts its growth to outdoors and indoors, although it prefers brightly lit environments and well-drained soils. To ensure optimal growth, keep the following points in mind:
- Luz: It needs a very bright location, preferably in full sun or, in very hot areas, in semi-shade during the central hours of the day. lack of light causes poor flowering and weakness in the stems.
- Temperature: Tolerates well mild climates and tolerates moderate temperature drops. It prefers a temperature range between 13 and 18°C, although it can easily withstand nighttime temperatures close to 7°C. In regions with very cold winters or intense frosts, it is advisable to protect it or grow it in a pot indoors.
- VentilationIf grown indoors, ensure good ventilation and avoid direct drafts, as they can dry out the plant.
Soil preparation and ideal substrate
The success in cultivation of Chrysanthemum coronarium It depends largely on the quality of the substrate:
- Universal substrate for pots or prepared mixes for flowering plants, which are light and have excellent drainage.
- Loose and airy texture: Soils that are too compact or clayey promote waterlogging and root rot.
- slightly acid pH (between 5,5 and 6,5), although it tolerates ranges close to neutrality.
- If the terrain is heavy, you can mix with coarse sand and peat to improve drainage.
Sowing, multiplication and transplantation
- Sowing by seedThis is the most common and simplest method. Sow directly in the garden or seedbed, at a depth of 2-3 millimeters and spaced 30 cm apart. Germination takes 10 to 20 days if the substrate is kept slightly moist and the average temperature is around 15°C.
- Stem cuttingsIn spring, select healthy green stems about 6-7 cm long, remove the lower leaves, soak the base in rooting hormone, and plant them in a sand and peat mixture. Maintain a temperature of about 15°C and constant humidity until rooting develops, which takes several weeks.
- TransplantOnce the seedlings have 4-5 leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them to their final location. If growing in a pot, make sure you have a container at least 20 cm deep and good drainage at the bottom.
- In warm climates, it is possible to sow in the fall; in colder regions, sow in the spring.
Irrigation and humidity
El chrysanthemum coronarium needs a regular watering, avoiding both prolonged drought and excessive moisture. Some key tips:
- Keep the substrate moist but never waterlogged.Symptoms of water deficiency include dry leaves and wilting; excess water results in rot and fungal diseases.
- In warm areas and seasons, water 2-3 times per week, preferably in the evening.
- In winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent fungal problems.
- Make sure water doesn't accumulate in the saucer under the pot. If necessary, empty it after watering.
- Avoid wetting the leaves; standing water encourages the growth of powdery mildew and other fungi.
Fertilization and fertilization
For vigorous growth and abundant flowering, fertilize the chrysanthemum coronarium regularly:
- Use complete fertilizers rich in potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus during the growth stage and until the formation of flower buds.
- Fertilize every 2 weeks during full bloom.
- Stop fertilizing when the flowers begin to open, to avoid excessive leaf growth that would hinder flowering.
- Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer, as it promotes leaf development but can weaken the plant and predispose it to pests.
Pruning, pinching and maintenance
La pruning and pinching They are essential to stimulate lateral growth, branching and flower production:
- Eliminate the flowers marchitas and dry leaves frequently to prevent the spread of disease and stimulate the emergence of new shoots.
- During growth, pinch (remove) the terminal buds from the main stems to obtain a more compact plant with a greater number of flowers. This can be done with your fingernails by pressing the pad against your index finger.
- At the end of flowering, cut the stems about 4 cm from the groundThis drastic pruning encourages regrowth in spring and multiplies the following flowering.
Flowering and its specific care
The flowering of the chrysanthemum coronarium It occurs between the end of summer and beginning of autumn, although it can be prolonged with forcing techniques. If you grow indoors, after flowering you can take the pot outside in the warmer months to strengthen the plant and encourage new blooms.
- Sparse flowering This could be due to a lack of light or water. Increase exposure to indirect light and slightly increase watering if the substrate is too dry.
- If flowering is very poor, try cutting the plant back and relocating it to receive more natural light.
Reproduction and propagation
El chrysanthemum coronarium is mainly multiplied by seeds, although it also admits the cut off:
- Seeds: Collect the ripe achenes (fruits) after flowering and plant them in your garden or seedbed, keeping them slightly moist until germination.
- CuttingsIn spring, cut pieces of green stem and plant them in aerated potting soil. Use rooting hormone to speed up the process if available.
- Plants grown from cuttings tend to flower best outdoors; those grown from seeds are better suited to indoors.
Common pests and diseases
Like any ornamental plant, the chrysanthemum coronarium can be affected by various plagues and diseasesKnowing them and how to act is key to keeping the plant healthy:
- MealybugsThey attach themselves to young shoots, extracting sap and weakening the plant. A cottony substance is usually visible. Remove them manually with a cloth and alcohol, and use insecticide if the infestation is severe.
- Trips: Sucking insects that cause leaf spots and drying. Remove affected stems and apply a specific insecticide.
- Mites (red spider): They attack in warm, dry environments. Cobwebs and reddish spots can be seen on the underside of leaves. Maintain humidity and, if necessary, apply treatments with mineral oils or biological insecticides.
- Chrysanthemum fly (Liriomyza trifolii): Its larvae burrow tunnels into leaves. Control with insecticides and remove affected leaves.
- Foliar nematodes: They cause yellow spots, deformation, and leaf drop. Disinfect tools, remove infected material, and space plants to promote ventilation.
- Aphid: Attacks tender shoots and excretes honeydew that can attract fungi. Control with oils, potassium soap, or natural insecticides.
fungal diseases:
- Powdery mildew (white powder)White spots appear on leaves and buds. Adjust watering and apply appropriate fungicides.
- Botrytis: Causes brown spots on flowers and leaves, caused by excessive humidity and lack of ventilation. Remove affected areas and improve ventilation.
- Roya: Brown or reddish spots on leaves. Remove diseased leaves and improve drainage and ventilation.
- verticillium wilt: Yellowing and wilting of leaves, moving toward the branches. Use specific products and avoid flooding.
Prevention is the best option: avoid overwatering, remove faded flowers, separate plants well, and inspect them periodically.
Common problems and how to solve them
Some common problems in growing chrysanthemum coronarium and its most common causes:
- Lack of flowering: Usually due to low light or water. Increase light and adjust watering.
- Dry or withered leaves: Underwatering or too cold. Water regularly and protect the plant from low temperatures.
- Small leaves: It may be due to lack or excess of water, nitrogen deficiency or pest attack.
- Stunted growth: Lack of light or pinching. Move the plant to a brighter location or pinch regularly.
Tips for growing in pots and indoors
- Place the pot in a very bright location (preferably east or west-facing windows).
- In warm or heated environments, spray the plant with warm, descaled water to increase humidity.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature and drafts.
- If the plant droops after flowering, allow it to rest by trimming the stems and placing it in a cool, bright space until it sprouts again.
Tips for outdoor and garden growing
- Choose a sunny area of ​​the garden, but one that offers partial shade during peak hours if the weather is very hot.
- Water only during periods of prolonged drought, as the plant tolerates some water shortages.
- Grow in borders, flowerbeds, or with other Mediterranean plants to promote balance in the garden and increase the presence of pollinators.
- At the end of flowering, cut the stems a few centimeters from the ground to encourage vigorous regrowth the following season.
Culinary and medicinal uses
El chrysanthemum coronarium It is edible and widely used in traditional Asian cuisine and medicine:
- The young leaves They are eaten raw in salads or sautéed in hot dishes. They are sometimes added to soups and stews. Above 25°C, they can acquire a bitter taste; if you're looking for a mild flavor, it's best to harvest them in cool climates or at the beginning of their development.
- The young flowers They are used in infusions and teas, taking advantage of their delicate aroma and digestive qualities.
- In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to treat digestive disorders and as a general tonic.
- rich in carotene, vitamin C, calcium and iron, which makes it a dietary supplement of nutritional interest.
Varieties and related species
The gender Chrysanthemum It includes multiple species with ornamental, medicinal and culinary value:
- Chrysanthemum morifolium: Florist's chrysanthemum, widely used in decoration and bouquets.
- Glebionis segetum (formerly Chrysanthemum segetum): Known as the king's crown chrysanthemum or golden daisy, with entirely yellow flowers, also edible and requiring similar care.
- Chrysanthemum japonense and other Asian chrysanthemums of cultural and ornamental importance in Japan and China.
