How to Grow Autumn Mum Burgundy
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Autumn Mum Burgundy
Chrysanthemum × morifolium 'Burgundy'
flowerAutumn Mum Burgundy is a classic chrysanthemum cultivar prized for its deep wine-red to burgundy colored blooms that appear in fall. These daisy-like flowers with tightly packed petals are popular ornamental plants used in gardens, borders, and floral arrangements. The plant typically grows to 18-24 inches tall and produces abundant flowers from late August through November.
When should you plant Autumn Mum Burgundy in your zone?
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Example Autumn Mum Burgundy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Autumn Mum Burgundy
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Autumn Mum Burgundy blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Autumn Mum Burgundy dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, with excellent hardiness in zones 5-8
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Transplant Establishment
2-3 weeksYoung plants with 4-6 true leaves, recently planted in garden or containers
Water thoroughly after planting. Apply 1-2 inches of mulch around base, keeping it away from stems. Pinch back growing tips at 6 inches tall to promote bushier growth.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and dense foliage, reaching 12-18 inches tall. Leaf buds form but no flower buds yet visible.
Continue pinching back stem tips until early August to create full, compact plants. Provide consistent moisture. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Stake taller varieties if needed.
Bud Formation
3-4 weeksFlower buds begin to develop at stem tips, visible as small rounded structures among the upper leaves
Stop pinching plants by early August. Switch to phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage budding. Maintain consistent watering and full sun exposure. Reduce nitrogen to avoid excess leaf growth.
Blooming
4-8 weeks (October-November)Flowers open progressively, revealing deep burgundy petals with tightly formed daisy-like blooms. Plant becomes showy with multiple flower clusters.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Water at soil level only. Stake plants if needed to prevent sprawling. Protect from heavy frost with row covers if needed in early fall.
Dormancy & Winter Hardiness
3-4 months (December-March)Flowers fade after frost. Above-ground foliage dies back but roots persist underground in hardy zones
Cut back dead stems to 3-4 inches above ground after hard frost. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch over root zone in colder zones. Divide plants in spring every 2-3 years to rejuvenate.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge; use miticide if severe. Improve air circulation and humidity levels.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs. Remove affected foliage.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly. Increase air circulation.
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Remove affected leaves promptly. Apply spinosad or neem oil. Improve sanitation by removing plant debris.
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Improve air circulation and reduce overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide. Remove affected leaves.
Uses
Edible Petals
CulinaryChrysanthemum petals are edible and used in Asian cuisine, particularly in teas and salads. They have a slightly bitter, floral taste and are prized in Japanese and Chinese cooking traditions. [source]
Traditional Medicine & Tea
MedicinalChrysanthemums have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to cool heat, calm the liver, and support eye health. Chrysanthemum tea is commonly consumed to promote relaxation and clarity. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdAutumn Mum Burgundy is one of the most popular cut flowers for fall arrangements, autumn decorations, and holiday displays. The deep burgundy color complements seasonal décor beautifully. [source]
Dried Flowers & Crafts
CraftThe sturdy flowers dry well and are used in dried flower arrangements, potpourri, and floral crafts. Burgundy varieties are especially striking in autumn wreaths and harvest displays. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeLate-blooming mums provide essential nectar and pollen sources for migrating butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects in fall when food sources are scarce. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut stems in early morning when flowers are fully open for longest vase life (10-14 days). Cut at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node. Remove lower foliage before placing in water. For continuous fall color, deadhead faded flower clusters to encourage secondary blooming. Pinch back centers of flowers if desired for fuller, more textured appearance in arrangements.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Chrysanthemums are the official flower of Japan and appear prominently in Japanese art, symbolizing longevity and rebirth. The Emperor of Japan celebrates a festival called 'Chrysanthemum Day' every November 23rd.
- 🌱 The name 'chrysanthemum' comes from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'anthemum' (flower), though modern cultivars like Burgundy showcase the full spectrum of fall colors from deep reds and burgundies to yellows and whites.
- 🌱 Autumn Mum Burgundy petals contain pyrethrin, a natural insecticide that repels many pests, which is why the plant has been traditionally used as a companion planting and for natural pest control purposes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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