Edible Chrysanthemum Double Mix Seeds - Chrysanthemum coronarium

Chrysanthemum coronarium 'Double Mix' is a selection of edible chrysanthemum with double flowers in a mix of yellow and white. Plants sown early under heated cover flower throughout the summer, and their flowering is very attractive to bees. This is an easy-to-grow annual plant for sunny spots in moist soil.

Belonging to the Asteraceae family, Chrysanthemum coronarium 'Double Mix' is an annual plant native to the Mediterranean basin. The plant lives only a few months, just long enough to flower and produce seeds for propagation. Each forms a clump of upright, branching stems that can reach between 1m and 1.40m in height with a spread of 40cm. The basal leaves are arranged in a rosette. The light green leaves are finely divided and measure between 5 and 7cm long. From June until September, the stem tips produce numerous double heads, entirely yellow or white with a yellow centre, measuring between 2 and 5cm in diameter. The seeds are small, elongated achenes in light brown to beige, with a slightly ridged texture. They somewhat resemble dandelion seeds, but without the fluffy heads. This variety tends to self-seed spontaneously if spent flowers are not removed. The seeds fall to the ground and germinate easily the following spring, especially in light, well-drained soil.

The tender young leaves can be eaten cooked or raw in a salad. The ligules or "petals" are also edible in salads. It is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine: in China, it is known as "tonghao", in Japan as "shungiku", and in Korea as "ssukgat". The flavour of the leaves is described as slightly bitter, but less so than dandelion, with a hint of pepperiness and a touch of freshness. Some find it similar to parsley, celery, or even a bit like spinach. Its aroma is quite herbaceous and floral, especially when raw.
Harvest the leaves as needed. Younger leaves are more flavourful and less bitter.

In the garden, the edible chrysanthemum 'Double Mix' finds its place in the vegetable patch. But its bright flowering and parsley-like foliage also shine in a cottage-style border. Plant it freely for a "daisies and friends" atmosphere.