Asteraceae
Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum: Ground Cover Plant
Ajania pacifica
An easy and low-maintenance outdoor plant: thrives in full sun or partial shade, in well-drained soil of any type and pH. Once established, it requires little watering. It is resistant to drought, heat, humidity, and salt spray. Its main enemy is waterlogged soil during winter. Pinch back stems in early summer to maintain a compact shape.
Every 10 days
Bright indirect
-20° - 35°C
30% - 70%
Categories
What is Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum (Ajania pacifica) is a easy-care plant from the Asteraceae family. Ajania pacifica is a low-growing, ground-covering perennial in the Asteraceae family, native to the rocky coastlines of Honshū, Japan. It forms wide, low cushions that spread via underground rhizomes. The lobed, bluish-green leaves feature a distinct silver margin and a silvery-white underside cover...
Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum grows up to 60cm, spread of 90cm, watering every 10 days, -20°C – 35°C, 30–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
TLDR: Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum needs Bright indirect, watering every 10 days, and temperatures between -20-35°C with 30-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant: water only when the soil is dry deep down. Avoid waterlogging, especially in winter, as cold, wet soil can cause the plant to die.
How Much Light Does Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum Need?
Full sun (at least 6 hours) is required for a compact habit and autumn flowering; it can tolerate partial shade. In climates with very hot summers, it appreciates some afternoon shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
Adapts to sandy, loamy, or clay soils and any pH level, provided they are well-drained. In areas with rainy winters or heavy soils, add gravel or plant in a raised position.
What Pot Should You Use for Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
When grown in pots, use a wide and relatively shallow terracotta container with plenty of drainage holes and a potting mix blended with sand or gravel.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum and Where Does It Come From?
Ajania pacifica is a low-growing, ground-covering perennial in the Asteraceae family, native to the rocky coastlines of Honshū, Japan. It forms wide, low cushions that spread via underground rhizomes. The lobed, bluish-green leaves feature a distinct silver margin and a silvery-white underside covered in fine hairs. In late autumn, when most of the garden has finished blooming, it produces clusters of small, yellow button-like flower heads without ray florets.
How to Propagate Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
Division
- Divide every 2-3 years to rejuvenate clumps that become thin in the center.
- 1 Lift
In spring, lift the clump with a spade, preserving as many roots as possible.
- 2 Divide
Separate the clump into sections, each with rhizomes and shoots.
- 3 Replant
Replant the sections immediately in well-drained soil and water thoroughly.
Materials needed:
Stem Cuttings
- Do not overwater: cuttings will rot in soggy potting mix.
- 1 Take Cuttings
In summer, cut 3-4 inch non-flowering tips just below a node.
- 2 Prepare
Remove the lower leaves from the cutting.
- 3 Root
Insert into a light, well-draining potting mix, keeping it barely moist in bright, indirect light.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum Grow?
TLDR: Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum can reach up to 60cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
60cm
Spread
90cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum?
TLDR: Silver and Gold Chrysanthemum is susceptible to 3 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Southern Blight
Southern blight is a devastating soilborne fungal disease caused by Athelia rolfsii (formerly Sclerotium rolfsii), affecting over 500 plant species including vegetables, ornamentals, and fruit crops. The fungus survives in soil through resting structures called sclerotia that resemble mustard seeds and can remain viable for years.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a serious fungal disease that attacks the crown (base) of the plant where the stem meets the soil. It is caused by various fungal pathogens including Phytophthora, Fusarium, and Rhizoctonia. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions and can quickly spread to kill the entire plant if not addressed promptly.
Meaning & Symbolism
In Japan, where it grows wild on Pacific cliffs, it is called isogiku ('beach chrysanthemum') and is seen as a symbol of resilience against wind and salt spray.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Iberian Houseleek | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
