Chrysanthemum × morifolium
Overview
Uses: Fall borders, seasonal containers, patio pots, mass plantings, front entry accents, autumn landscape color
Benefits: Abundant late-season blooms in a wide range of colors, dense mounding habit, reliable autumn performance, strong pollinator interest
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Mounding, Rounded — dense dome-shaped canopy
Bloom Color: Yellow, White, Pink, Red, Purple, Orange
Mature Height: 24–36 inches
Mature Width: 24–36 inches
Bloom Season: Late Summer through Fall
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Few plants define the fall garden like mums. Dense mounds of color erupt just as many summer flowers fade, bringing warmth and structure to autumn landscapes.
Chrysanthemum × morifolium produces masses of tightly packed blooms in vibrant seasonal shades. Their naturally rounded habit makes them ideal for borders, entryways, and patio containers. While often sold as seasonal color, garden mums are true hardy perennials in appropriate zones and can return year after year when properly established.
In addition to their ornamental value, fall mums attract late-season pollinators and extend visual interest well into cooler weather.
Care
Fall Mum Care
Plant in full sun for strongest stems and maximum flowering. Mums prefer well-drained soil and benefit from consistent moisture during establishment. Once established, water during prolonged dry periods, avoiding overly wet soil.
Fertilize lightly in spring and early summer using a slow release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and bud development.
If planting for perennial performance, install early enough in the season to allow roots to establish before hard freezes. After the first hard frost, trim spent flowers but leave stems intact. Apply 3–4 inches of mulch around the base for winter insulation. Remove excess mulch and cut stems back in spring as new growth emerges.
Container Growing
Mums perform exceptionally well in containers and patio pots. Containers dry out more quickly than in-ground plantings, so monitor moisture regularly and water when the top inch of soil becomes dry.
Ensure pots have proper drainage. Fertilize periodically during the growing season, as nutrients leach more quickly in containers.
Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Fall Mum for Sale Online?
Our fall mums ship in greenhouse-grade grow pots and are well-established for their container size. Plants are actively growing and appropriately sized at the time of shipment. If you have specific sizing questions, please contact us.
How Large Does Fall Mum Grow?
At maturity, fall mums typically reach 24–36 inches tall and 24–36 inches wide, forming a full, rounded mound of foliage covered in blooms.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly known as Fall Mum, Autumn Mum, Garden Mum, and Hardy Mum.
Are fall mums true perennials?
Yes. In USDA Zones 5–9, garden mums are classified as hardy perennials and can return each year when planted early enough to establish roots before winter. Many gardeners grow them seasonally as annuals, but they are capable of perennial performance in suitable climates.
Do fall mums attract pollinators?
Yes. Their late-season blooms provide nectar for bees and butterflies when many other flowers have finished. They make an excellent addition to pollinator-focused perennials collections.
Where can fall mums be used in the landscape?
Fall mums are versatile and suitable for borders, foundation plantings, and containers. They also pair well with other seasonal selections found in our patio plants collection for autumn displays.
