When I visited the Chrysanthemum show at Longwood Gardens this fall, I was amazed at all the varieties of mums that were on display. As I explored the exhibit, I learned that there are thirteen bloom forms of chrysanthemums.
One of my favorites is the Spider Mums. According to the classification system of the National Chrysanthemum Society “Spiders have long tubular ray florets which may coil or hook at the ends. The florets may be very fine to course.”
At Longwood Gardens, I photographed three varieties of spider chrysanthemums. The first is a wonderful bright yellow Golden Splendour Spider Chrysanthemum.
(c) 2009 Patty Hankins
The Golden Splendour Chrysanthemums were growing in groups in the conservatory when I visited. The groupings of the these large yellow flowers were magnificent.
(c) 2009 Patty Hankins
The flowers were as interesting from the side as they were from above. This next photo shows the incredible three dimensional look of the flowers.
(c) 2009 Patty Hankins
The second variety of spider chrysanthemum that I photographed was a Descano Spider Chrysanthemum. I wasn’t very happy with most of my photos of the Descano flowers. The red, orange and yellow colors in the blossoms were incredible. The one photo that I am happy with is this close up that shows the intricate detail and texture of the flower.
(c) 2009 Patty Hankins
The third variety of spider mum I photographed was an unnamed purple variety. I love the way these flowers look in a group.
(c) 2009 Patty Hankins
(c) 2009 Patty Hankins
I hope Longwood Gardens has another chrysanthemum show next year, I really would like to photograph more varieties of spider mums.