Chrysanthemum derives its name from two Greek prefixes which are 'Chrys' meaning ‘golden’ and 'anthemon' which means ‘flower’. The genus belongs to the family of ‘Asteraceae’. The flower grows in the shapes of balls, buttons or like the shape of a daisy and it can be of purple, white and red shades, apart from the traditional yellow colour. Like marigold, chrysanthemum is a compound flower which means that a number of flowers cluster together at the flower head giving it a single look. This perennial plant has around 30 different species.

It is found throughout Asia and north-eastern Europe. The tropical plant can be grown very easily as it grows in any soil type and thrives best in sunny climate producing dainty blossoms.

These attractive flowers are popularly used for decoration and are regarded as well known garden flowers and are also used for landscaping. The flowers are boiled to make chrysanthemum tea which is effective for curing influenza. The flowers are also used to add flavour to a rice wine in Korea. A particular species of chrysanthemum is used to prepare insecticide.

In some European countries as well as in Japan, chrysanthemum symbolizes death and is used only in funerals or placed on graves. In the United States, the flower is suggestive of everything positive and cheerful.