Edible Chrysanthemum

Edible Chrysanthemum: variety and characteristics

Edible Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium) is an annual flower of the Daisy family (Asteraceae). Edible chrysanthemum comes from the Mediterranean region and is an attractive addition to any planting.

The aromatic plants feature in Chinese, Japanese and Taiwanese cuisine.

They are a fragrant addition to beef and lamb, and also make an excellent tea when brewed.

As a medicinal herb, edible chrysanthemum is an ancient Chinese remedy for treating headaches.

Young plants 10-20 cm long can be eaten fresh in salads.

Annual chrysanthemums flower from June until the frosts with colourful, multicoloured flower heads — for borders and cutting. Garland (shungiku) is also an edible leaf vegetable.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 76%
• Seeds per packet: 680–920 pcs (2 g)
• Seed origin: Denmark
• Sowing: March and April; transplants or direct
• Flowering: July and August
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Edible Chrysanthemum

Edible Chrysanthemum seeds are sown in March and April. The plants flower in July and August. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Edible Chrysanthemum

• Sowing method: seedlings or direct
• Depth: 0.5 cm
• Spacing: 20–30 cm
• Germination: 7–14 days at 18–22 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Sow edible chrysanthemum seeds directly in spring, after the last chance of frost, on the soil surface. Keep moderately moist until germination, which should happen within 10-14 days. Water the seedlings regularly until they are established. Mature plants can be watered sparingly in drought conditions, but too much moisture will cause disease and root rot. Although it can tolerate a light frost, this plant will not survive snow. It will self-seed and spread easily, but volunteer plants can be removed easily if unwanted. This plant also grows well as a container plant if it has good drainage.

Sow for seedlings in March or directly in April. Pinch out the tips for branching.

Flowering and uses

Excellent for cutting.

Frequently asked questions

When should Edible Chrysanthemum be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March and April. Sowing method: seedlings or direct.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 680–920 seeds, pack size 2 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 76%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.