November Birth Flower: Chrysanthemum (Meaning + How to Grow It)
Are you a November birth flower like me? As the garden begins to slow down and the air turns crisp, November brings one last burst of color with its birth flower: the chrysanthemum, often lovingly called “mums.” These classic fall flowers are known for their rich hues, full blooms, and ability to give the garden one last burst of color. I love mums they come back every year and have a beautiful green foliage all spring and summer love.
Whether you’re celebrating a November birthday or simply want to extend your garden’s beauty into late fall, chrysanthemums are a perfect choice.
Chrysanthemum: Loyalty, Joy & Longevity
Chrysanthemums have been cultivated for centuries and hold deep meaning across many cultures. Their layered petals and wide variety of colors make them a standout in both gardens and floral arrangements.
Meaning
Chrysanthemums symbolize:
- Loyalty and devotion
- Joy and happiness
- Longevity and well-being
In many places, they’re also associated with friendship and positivity—making them a meaningful flower to give or grow.
Why You Should Grow November Birth Flower
Now that you know the flowers have you ever considered growing them? How fun would it be to have a garden full of the birth flowers of all your loved ones? Maybe your children, siblings, or loved ones that have moved on from this life. You can be in your garden and remember them, or maybe feel them with you. How healing for the soul, or just fun! Your front yard could depict your family without a family photo. Flowers have such a healing effect on the soul. My front yard is dedicated to flowers. Flowers I love and flowers that the people I love, love. Shasta daisies for my mother in law, lilacs for my grandma Mary, daffodils for my grandma Oda, hydrangeas for my mom, and peonies for me. Grow flowers that have meaning, and I think growing birth flowers is a great place to start.
How to Grow Chrysanthemums
Mums are relatively easy to grow and can thrive in both garden beds and containers with the right care.
1. When to Plant
- Plant in spring or early summer for best root development, but I plant mine in the late summer when plants are available at the plant nurseries. Even here in our harsh winters they come back the following spring.
- Fall-planted mums are perennials, but may not survive winter in colder climates
2. Where to Plant
- Choose a spot with full sun (at least 6 hours daily)
- Soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter
3. How to Plant
- Space plants 18–24 inches apart
- Plant at the same depth as the nursery container
- Water thoroughly after planting
4. Watering & Care
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather
- Avoid letting plants dry out completely
- Add mulch to help retain moisture
5. Cut Back for More Blooms
- Cut dead stems off for new growth in late spring and early summer
- This encourages fuller, bushier plants with more flowers
6. Winter Care
- After frost, cut back stems, or better wait until early spring
- Add a thick layer of mulch to protect roots
- In colder climates, consider treating them as annuals or overwintering indoors
Garden Tips for Beautiful Mums
- Choose hardy varieties if you want them to return each year
- Plant early for stronger root systems
- Avoid overcrowding to reduce disease
November Birth Flower Gift Ideas
Are you a November Birthday or have a loved one with a July birthday? I have come up with a few fun, beautiful and cute ideas to make your November birthdays feel special.
- Chrysanthemum necklace or jewelry
- Embroider a Chrysanthemum on an article of clothing or hat
- Sticker of a Chrysanthemum
- Chrysanthemum bookmark
- Books about Chrysanthemum, my favorite children’s book is found here Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
- Journal with Chrysanthemum on it
- The actual plant or seeds
- Chrysanthemum coloring book
Final Thoughts: Why November Flower Matters
No matter what you do, enjoy this time of month. I have found focusing on what I love, flowers, and the relationships make this month special. Happy Birthday to all of the July birthdays. I hope you feel special this month because you are a larkspur or a water lily.
As always,
grow flowers to heal the soul,
Beth
