Garden hybrid
This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.
2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Herbaceous perennial, typically forming a bushy mound of aromatic, lobed, dark green leaves. Valued for its profuse, late-season flowering. Parent species are native to Asia and northeastern Europe.
The 'Tenderness' cultivar is distinguished by its soft pink, anemone-type flowers with a prominent, raised central cushion of florets. It is a popular choice for fall containers, borders, and as a cut flower.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to pets (cats, dogs, horses). Can cause skin irritation in humans.
Bloom period
Fall – Late fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
- Ensure soil remains evenly moist during active growth.
- Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
- Pinch back in early summer to promote bushiness.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining loam soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Pinch back stems to encourage bushiness
- Fertilize monthly for vibrant blooms
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t ignore pests like aphids
- Avoid heavy pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tenderness Garden Mum questions
What zones can Tenderness Garden Mum grow in?
Tenderness Garden Mum is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Tenderness Garden Mum deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Tenderness Garden Mum, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Tenderness Garden Mum bloom?
Tenderness Garden Mum typically blooms in fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Tenderness Garden Mum need full sun?
Tenderness Garden Mum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Chrysanthemum to compare
May Queen Shasta Daisy
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'May Queen'
Becky Shasta Daisy
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'Becky'
Mammoth Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Mammoth'
Christy Garden Mum
Chrysanthemum x hybrida 'Christy'
Small Wonder Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Small Wonder'
Mammoth Mum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Mammoth Mum'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tenderness Garden Mum with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.