Chrysanthemum, more commonly known as 'mums', are tropical flowers that originated from China. The flower gets its name from the Greek 'Chrys' meaning golden (which was the color of the original flowers) and 'anthemon', meaning flower. Chrysanthemums are believed to symbolize fidelity, optimism, joy and long life.

• A red chrysanthemum conveys love
• A white chrysanthemum symbolizes truth and loyal love
• A yellow chrysanthemum symbolizes slighted love

Mums belong to the Asteraceae family, one of the largest flowering plant families. There are over 1,000 genera and about 20,000 differect species of mums. The blooms can be daisy-like, pompoms or buttons and are available in a variety of colors and sizes. Yellow, white, purple, orange, pink and red are just a few of the colors available. These plants reach an average height of 12 - 24 inches (30 - 60 cm).

Mums must be watered 2 - 3 times a week keeping the soil moist at all times. The plants also need bright light and cool temperatures (55-65°F).