A basket of Chrysanthemum.

Chrysanthemums, sometimes called mums or chrysanths, are flowering plants of the genus Chrysanthemum in the family Asteraceae. They are native to Asia and northeastern Europe. Most species originate from East Asia and the center of diversity is in China. There are countless horticultural varieties and cultivars.

A beloved attribute of the autumn season in North America, the Chrysanthemum, often referred to as a "Mum", is actually closely related to the daisy. Chrysanthemums are native to China, and have been cultivated there since the 15th century BC as a flowering herb. Brought to Europe in the 17th century, the flower was named from the Greek words "chrysos", meaning "golden", and "anthemon", meaning "flower".

By sending Chrysanthemums as a gift, your message could mean many things, depending on the recipient. Various meanings include cheerfulness, you're a wonderful friend, rest; loveliness, abundance or wealth. In European cultures, the mum could also symbolize a scholarly isolation, longevity or death.