November birth flower: chrysanthemum

The chrysanthemum

The chrysanthemum, or mum, is the one flower consistently named for November. This is a popular tradition and not an official designation. Mums come in dozens of forms, from tidy button shapes to large spidery blooms, in gold, bronze, red, white, pink and purple. Many are sold as potted plants in September and October.

What it is associated with

• In Victorian flower language, mostly cheerfulness and friendship; a red mum is often tied to love.
• In Japan, the chrysanthemum is a long-standing emblem and is celebrated at autumn festivals.
• In some European countries it is used mainly at graves in early November, so a bouquet there can carry a different mood. Check local custom before gifting.

Growing and keeping mums

Garden mums prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in spring for the strongest roots, since mums bought in fall often struggle to survive the winter. Pinch growing tips until midsummer for bushy plants, and water at the base. Cut mums last two to three weeks in a vase, among the longest-lived of cut flowers, if you change the water and trim the stems.

Gift ideas for November birthdays

A pot of golden or bronze mums brings fall warmth to a doorstep. A cut bouquet in orange and yellow echoes topaz and citrine, November’s birthstones. For something different, a bundle of spray mums with eucalyptus makes an inexpensive, lasting arrangement.

Safety note

Chrysanthemums can cause skin irritation in sensitive people and are toxic to cats, dogs and horses if eaten. Keep them away from pets and do not eat the flowers. Chrysanthemum tea sold as food is a different product and is not a homegrown garden flower.

Zodiac connection

November birthdays are Scorpio until about November 21 and Sagittarius after that. No official sign pairing exists. The rich colors of a deep red mum are an easy match for Scorpio in casual lists.