Chrysanthemum Bouquets: Meaning, Varieties and a DIY Guide

Chrysanthemums are among the longest-lasting cut flowers: a bouquet lasts two to three weeks and looks fresh almost to the end. Here is what the chrysanthemum symbolises, which varieties suit bouquets, how to make a chrysanthemum bouquet yourself and how to make it last. Learn more in chrysanthemums in a vase.

Ready-made bouquets are available in our chrysanthemums section with delivery in Kyiv.

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What the chrysanthemum symbolises

Chrysanthemums have been grown in China for more than two thousand years, where they symbolise longevity and autumn. In Japan a stylised chrysanthemum is the emblem of the imperial family, and the imperial throne is called the Chrysanthemum Throne. In Ukraine chrysanthemums are a popular autumn gift for teachers, colleagues and family. Note that in several European countries (such as France, Italy and Belgium) they are associated with remembrance and All Saints' Day, so they are best not given to people from there.

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Which chrysanthemums to choose

For more on classification, see types of chrysanthemums, and for garden growing, growing chrysanthemums.

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How to make a chrysanthemum bouquet

• Prepare the flowers. Strip leaves from the lower two thirds of the stems and remove extra side shoots.
• Choose a base. 3–5 single-headed chrysanthemums or 5–7 spray stems.
• Add accents: spray roses, alstroemeria, hypericum, eucalyptus, grasses.
• Spiral the stems. Lay each stem at the same angle while turning the bouquet in your hand; see the spiral bouquet technique for details.
• Tie and trim. Tie with twine where the stems cross and cut them to one length.
• Wrap. Kraft, felt or linen underline the autumn mood.

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What to pair chrysanthemums with

• Autumn palette: orange and burgundy chrysanthemums, terracotta roses, hypericum, maple or beech leaves.
• Soft: white and cream chrysanthemums with lisianthus, gypsophila and eucalyptus.
• Bright: yellow chrysanthemums with blue delphinium or purple lisianthus.
• Monochrome: green chrysanthemums (such as Feeling Green) with foliage — trendy and long-lasting.

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How to make the bouquet last

• Chrysanthemum stems are tough: cut them with a sharp knife rather than breaking or splitting them.
• Change the water every other day and recut 1–2 cm.
• Keep the bouquet cool, away from radiators and direct sun.
• Remove faded blooms on spray stems so the rest last longer.

With this care chrysanthemums last 2–3 weeks.

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FAQ

How long do chrysanthemums last in a vase?

2–3 weeks with regular water changes.

Is it OK to give chrysanthemums?

In Ukraine, yes — they are a popular gift. In some Western European countries they are associated with remembrance.

How many chrysanthemums should a bouquet have?

Small bouquets traditionally use an odd number; a spray stem counts as one flower.

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

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