Poms in Floral Arrangements
One of the most common applications for poms flowers is in floral arrangements. Their cheerful, spherical shape and variety of colors make them a florist's staple. Poms are a type of spray chrysanthemum, meaning a single stem can produce multiple blooms. This growth habit makes them excellent for adding volume, texture, and color to bouquets and centerpieces.
Filling out bouquets
As filler flowers, poms fill the spaces between larger focal flowers like roses or lilies, creating a full, lush appearance. Their round shape contrasts beautifully with more open, classic blooms. Varieties like green 'Kermit' poms add a unique texture and bright color, while white button poms can provide a crisp, clean feel.
Creating focal points
In some arrangements, poms can also serve as the focal flower, especially when used in large clusters or featuring a particularly vibrant color. A bouquet made entirely of different colored poms can be a stunning and cheerful display, relying on the varied textures and hues of the blossoms for visual interest. Their hardiness also contributes to their popularity, as they are known for a long vase life, keeping arrangements looking fresh for an extended period.
Poms in the Garden and Landscape
Beyond cut flowers, poms are a popular choice for garden beds and landscapes. As chrysanthemums, they are resilient perennials that bloom abundantly, often in the late summer and fall when many other flowers are fading.
A magnet for pollinators
Certain varieties of poms, particularly those with a more open, daisy-like form, are excellent for attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees to the garden. This makes them a beneficial addition to any eco-friendly or pollinator-focused garden.
Adding texture and color
Their various forms—including button, cushion, and daisy—allow for a wide range of aesthetic uses in garden design. They can be planted in borders, containers, or massed together for a dramatic effect. For example, the vibrant yellow of Craspedia (billy balls) adds a playful element, while the fluffy pinks and whites of Bellis Perennis offer a more classic, cottage-style feel.
Herbal and Medicinal Uses
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the chrysanthemum flower has a long history of use for its medicinal properties. While the decorative poms found at a florist are not typically used for this purpose due to potential pesticide use, flowers grown for consumption are utilized for wellness.
Chrysanthemum flowers are often brewed into a tea, which is known for its antioxidants, antibacterial, and antiviral compounds. This herbal tea is traditionally used to address issues like inflammation, high blood pressure, headaches, and to support the immune system. For those interested in herbal remedies, it is crucial to source organically grown, edible-grade chrysanthemum flowers.
Natural Pest Control
One of the most practical and lesser-known uses of chrysanthemums is their function as a natural insecticide. The flowers contain a chemical compound called pyrethrin, which is effective against a wide range of common pests.
Pyrethrin-based insecticides are a more environmentally friendly alternative to many synthetic pesticides, as they are biodegradable. Extracts from chrysanthemum flowers can be used to create sprays that repel and eliminate pests like mosquitoes, aphids, and cockroaches.
Decorative Crafts and More
Poms are also utilized in various decorative applications beyond fresh arrangements. Their robust form and texture make them perfect for drying and using in everlasting crafts.
- Dried floral arrangements: Dried poms, such as yarrow or marigolds, can be used in home decor, wreaths, or other decorative displays that last for years.
- Artificial crafts: Yarn or tissue paper versions of pom flowers are a popular craft activity for making long-lasting bouquets, garlands, and other decorations.
- Edible garnishes: Some edible-grade globe amaranth flowers are used to add a pop of color to celebration cakes and other culinary creations.
Comparison of Poms Flower Uses
| Use | Description | Key Benefits | Best Varieties | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Floral Design | Used in bouquets and arrangements for filler or as a focal point. | Adds volume, texture, and has a long vase life. | Spray Chrysanthemums (Daisy, Button), Pompon Dahlias. | Florist-quality poms may be treated; not for consumption. |
| Garden/Landscape | Planted in beds, borders, and containers for ornamental purposes. | Attracts pollinators, offers late-season blooms, adds color. | Any pompon-like flower (Chrysanthemum, Dahlia, Allium). | Needs full sun and well-draining soil for best results. |
| Herbal Medicine | Brewed into a tea for its calming and antioxidant properties. | Anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and stress-reducing effects. | Edible-grade Chrysanthemum flowers (e.g., C. morifolium). | Must use food-safe, organically grown flowers. |
| Pest Control | Extract used to create natural pyrethrin insecticides. | Biodegradable, eco-friendly, less toxic than synthetic options. | Chrysanthemum varieties rich in pyrethrins (e.g., C. cinerariaefolium). | Can still affect beneficial insects like bees; apply with care. |
| Decorative Crafts | Dried flowers or yarn versions for everlasting decor. | Longevity, customizable colors, adds a unique texture. | Yarrow, Craspedia, artificial craft poms. | Involves additional steps like drying or crafting. |
Conclusion
Poms flowers, encompassing various species and cultivars, are far more than just a simple addition to a bouquet. From their starring role in floral design to their practical application in natural pest management and their historical use in traditional medicine, their versatility is remarkable. Whether adding a touch of cheer to a festive arrangement, attracting beneficial insects to a garden, or providing a soothing herbal tea, the humble poms flower offers a multitude of valuable uses that continue to be appreciated across different cultures and contexts. The resilience, beauty, and practicality of poms ensure their lasting popularity in many areas of life. For more information on growing chrysanthemums and other plants, consult specialized gardening resources.
