Chrysanthemums vs Dahlias: Difference and Comparison

Key Takeaways

1. Chrysanthemums are a vibrant and beloved addition to gardens and floral arrangements worldwide.
2. Dahlias have intricate blooms and bright colors and come in various sizes.
3. Chrysanthemums have more numerous and thinner petals, creating a pom-pom-like appearance, whereas dahlias have fewer, thicker petals and can range from simple to complex bloom shapes.

What are Chrysanthemums?

Chrysanthemums, also called mums, are a vibrant and beloved addition to gardens and floral arrangements worldwide. These flowering plants are particularly cherished during the autumn season when their rich colors mimic the changing leaves.

These flowers come in various colors, including red, yellow, white, orange, and purple. Their blooms can be single, double, or even pompom-shaped. They can thrive in various climates, making them a popular gardener choice. The foliage of these flowers is dark green and deeply lobed, propagated through cuttings or division.

Symbolically, in many cultures, these flowers represent longevity, joy, and optimism. In Japan, the Chrysanthemum Throne is the traditional name for the country’s imperial throne, symbolizing the emperor’s divine right to rule.

These flowers require well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to flourish. Regular pruning and deadheading spent blooms can promote a longer blooming period. When properly cared for, these flowers can be beautiful in any garden. These flowers bloom in late summer and fall. 

What are Dahlias?

Dahlias have intricate blooms and bright colors and come in various sizes. These flowers have gained immense popularity among gardeners and florists for their diversity and eye-catching appearance.

They come in various sizes, from petite, button-like flowers to massive dinner plate-sized blossoms. Their shades range from fiery reds and oranges to soft pastels, deep purples, and maroons. Their foliage is smoother and finely divided, and they are grown from tubers to seeds.

Historically, these flowers are native to Mexico and were cultivated by the Aztecs for decorative and culinary purposes. They did not make their way to Europe until the 18^th century, and since then, they have become a symbol of elegance and grace.

Caring for dahlias involves full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering. Staking may be necessary for taller varieties to prevent them from toppling over. These flowers have a more extended blooming period, starting in mid-summer and continuing until the first frost.

Difference Between chrysanthemums and dahlias

1. Chrysanthemums have more numerous and thinner petals, creating a pom-pom-like appearance, whereas dahlias have fewer, thicker petals and can range from simple to complex bloom shapes.
2. Chrysanthemums are smaller, whereas dahlias can have a broader range of sizes, including miniature varieties.
3. Chrysanthemums tend to prefer cooler temperatures and are grown as perennials, while dahlias thrive in warmer climates and are treated as annuals.
4. Chrysanthemums are propagated through cuttings or division, whereas dahlias are grown from tubers to seeds.
5. Chrysanthemums bloom in late summer to fall, while dahlias have a more extended blooming season, starting in mid-summer and continuing until the first frost.

Comparison Between Chrysanthemums and Dahlias

Parameters	Chrysanthemums	Dahlias
Petals and bloom types	More numerous and thinner petals create a pom-pom-like appearance	Fewer, thicker petals and can range from simple to complex bloom shapes
Size	Generally smaller in size	A wider range of sizes, including miniature varieties
Growing conditions	They prefer cooler temperatures and are grown as perennials	Thrive in warmer climates and are treated as annuals
Propagation	Through cuttings or division	From tubers to seeds
Blooming season	Late summer to fall	In the longer blooming season, they start mid-summer and continue until the first frost.

References

1. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jph.13129
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304423897000721

Last Updated : 29 January, 2024