Chrysanthemums – the golden flower from Asia
Vase, meaning, All Saints’ Day & cultural tips
One flower, two faces: in Austria, it stands for mourning and All Saints’ Day — in Japan, it is the symbol of the emperor. Here’s what you should know about chrysanthemums.
Chrysanthemums don’t have it easy in Austria. Many people automatically associate them with cemeteries and All Saints’ Day. Yet the chrysanthemum is one of the world’s most popular cut flowers — and in Asia, it is even a symbol of luck and long life. Chrysanthemum care is simple, and their vase life is impressive.
Here, it’s all about the cultural differences in the meaning of chrysanthemums, how to care for them in a vase, and why they are so important for All Saints’ Day.
Quick profile: Chrysanthemum
Botanical name: Chrysanthemum
Origin: China (for over 3,000 years)
Varieties: over 20,000 cultivars
Growing regions: Netherlands, Colombia, China
Cut flower: available year-round
Vase life: 14–21 days
Colors: White, Yellow, Pink, Red, Purple, Bronze
Difficulty: very easy
Where do chrysanthemums come from?
Chrysanthemums have been cultivated in China for over 3,000 years — there, they are considered one of the “Four Gentlemen” of Chinese art (alongside plum blossom, orchid, and bamboo). In Japan, the chrysanthemum became the imperial symbol — the Chrysanthemum Throne remains the throne of the Japanese emperor to this day.
They arrived in Europe in the 17th century. Here, they developed a very different symbolism: in many European countries — especially Austria, France, and Italy — chrysanthemums became the flower of mourning and remembrance.
The meaning of chrysanthemums — Austria vs. Asia
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In Austria & Europe
Mourning, remembrance, All Saints’ Day. White chrysanthemums on graves are a tradition. As a gift for the living, they are rather uncommon.
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In Japan & China
Luck, long life, joy, imperial dignity. Chrysanthemums are given at celebrations and are seen as a positive symbol.
Cultural note: In Austria, France, or Italy, giving chrysanthemums as a gift can be misunderstood as a mourning flower. In many Asian cultures, by contrast, they are a welcome gift. If in doubt, choose colorful varieties rather than white.
All Saints’ Day — Grave flower arrangements and wreaths
For All Saints’ Day (November 1), chrysanthemums are the most important flower in Austria. White and yellow chrysanthemums dominate the cemeteries. They are perfect for All Saints’ Day grave decorations and All Saints’ Day arrangements because they last for weeks even in cool temperatures.
Chrysanthemums are also a classic choice for funeral flowers — especially white varieties combined with greenery.
Chrysanthemums in a vase — care tips
Cutting chrysanthemums
Trim the stems at an angle and remove the lower leaves completely. For spray chrysanthemums (several blooms per stem), regularly pinch off any faded individual flowers as well.
How to make chrysanthemums last longer
Use clean, cool water with flower food. Change it every 3–4 days. Chrysanthemums are sturdy — they can tolerate slightly warmer rooms too, but they last longest at 18°C. 14–21 days is normal.
Winterizing chrysanthemums — in the garden
Garden chrysanthemums are only partially winter-hardy. To winterize chrysanthemums:
- After flowering, do not cut back — the old foliage protects against frost
- Cover the root area with leaves or brushwood
- Cut back close to the ground only in spring (March/April)
- Be sure to avoid waterlogging in winter
Chrysanthemums at MoBlumen Vienna
Fresh chrysanthemums, All Saints’ Day arrangements, and funeral floristry — delivery in Vienna.
Frequently asked questions about chrysanthemums
In Austria, they are often associated with mourning. Internationally, however, they are one of the most popular cut flowers — in Asia, they are even a symbol of good luck. Colorful varieties also make a wonderfully cheerful gift.
14–21 days — they are among the longest-lasting cut flowers. Trim the stems at an angle, remove the leaves, use cool water with flower food, and change it every 3–4 days.
Fresh flowers at MoBlumen Vienna
Chrysanthemums, roses, bouquets, and more — hand-tied and delivered fast.
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Also read: All Saints’ Day grave flowers in Vienna