Chrysanthemums are widely loved for their vibrant colours and full, layered petals, making them a popular choice in gardens and floral arrangements.
However, many other blooms share a similar appearance, often leading people to wonder: what flower looks like a chrysanthemum? If you’ve ever mistaken another bloom for a chrysanthemum, you’re not alone.
This article explores 20 flowers that look like chrysanthemums but have distinct characteristics. From dahlias to asters, each flower has unique traits that set it apart. Read on to discover these lookalike flowers and learn how to differentiate them from true chrysanthemums.
1. Dahlias
Dahlias and chrysanthemums share a similar aesthetic, both exhibiting full, layered blooms. However, their foliage provides a clear distinction: dahlia leaves are ovate with pointed tips and serrated edges, presenting a glossy appearance, whereas chrysanthemum leaves are more delicate, lacy, and have rounded lobes.
Additionally, while chrysanthemums have been cultivated for over 3,000 years, originating from China and Japan, dahlias are native to Mexico and were introduced to Europe in the 19th century.
2. Zinnias
Zinnias and chrysanthemums can appear similar due to their vibrant colours and layered petals. However, zinnias typically have a more rigid, upright growth habit and broader leaves with a rough texture, whereas chrysanthemums display a bushier form with softer, deeply lobed foliage.
Zinnias are also known for their ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions, making them more drought-tolerant compared to chrysanthemums, which prefer cooler temperatures and consistent moisture.
3. Asters
Asters and chrysanthemums both belong to the Asteraceae family, leading to similarities in their daisy-like flower structures.
However, asters generally bloom in late summer to fall and are often found in shades of blue, purple, and white, while chrysanthemums offer a broader colour palette and typically bloom in the autumn.
Aster leaves are usually narrower and smoother compared to the more textured and lobed leaves of chrysanthemums. Additionally, asters are predominantly native to North America and are known for their hardiness, whereas chrysanthemums have a longer history of cultivation in Asia.
4. Marigolds
Marigolds and chrysanthemums share vibrant colours and similar bloom structures, making them popular choices for gardeners seeking bright, full flowers.
However, marigolds are annuals known for their hardiness and ability to bloom continuously from summer through autumn, providing a constant splash of colour with minimal effort.
Their foliage differs as well; marigold leaves are pinnate with a distinct scent, whereas chrysanthemum leaves are more deeply lobed and less aromatic. Additionally, marigolds tend to have a longer blooming period compared to chrysanthemums, which may have a shorter blooming period.
5. Camellias
Camellias and chrysanthemums both display lush, layered petals, often leading to visual confusion. However, camellias are evergreen shrubs that bloom primarily in late winter to early spring, contrasting with chrysanthemums' autumn flowering season.
Camellia leaves are glossy, dark green, and leathery, differing significantly from the softer, lighter green foliage of chrysanthemums. Furthermore, camellias prefer acidic soil and partial shade, while chrysanthemums thrive in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
6. Cosmos
Cosmos and chrysanthemums both feature daisy-like blooms with a similar petal arrangement, making them appear alike at first glance. However, cosmos flowers are typically more delicate, with slender stems and fine, feathery foliage, unlike the sturdier stems and broader leaves of chrysanthemums.
Cosmos are annuals that bloom profusely from summer until the first frost, whereas chrysanthemums are perennials with a more limited autumn blooming period. Additionally, cosmos flowers often have a more open, airy appearance compared to the denser blooms of chrysanthemums.
7. Anemones
Anemones, often referred to as windflowers, exhibit a delicate beauty with their simple, poppy-like blooms. While some varieties showcase a central disc surrounded by petal-like sepals, similar to chrysanthemums, anemones typically have fewer petals and a more open appearance.
Their foliage is deeply lobed and fern-like, differing from the broader leaves of chrysanthemums. Anemones bloom in early spring or fall, depending on the species, offering a different flowering season compared to the autumn-blooming chrysanthemums.
8. Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies are vibrant flowers known for their large, bold blooms that can easily be mistaken for certain chrysanthemum varieties. Both flowers belong to the Asteraceae family, sharing a similar structure of central disc florets surrounded by ray petals.
However, Gerbera daisies often have more substantial, wider petals and come in a broader spectrum of bright colours, including shades not commonly found in chrysanthemums, such as vivid oranges and pinks.
The leaves of Gerbera daisies are typically larger, lobed, and have a coarse texture, contrasting with the finer, more segmented foliage of chrysanthemums. Additionally, Gerbera daisies prefer warmer climates and are often grown as annuals in cooler regions, whereas chrysanthemums are hardy perennials.
9. Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum ircutianum)
The Oxeye daisy is a common wildflower that bears a resemblance to certain chrysanthemum species, particularly the daisy-type chrysanthemums. Both feature white ray petals encircling a yellow central disc.
However, Oxeye daisies typically have a more simplistic and uniform petal arrangement, with each petal being narrow and evenly spaced, whereas chrysanthemums may exhibit more densely packed and varied petal formations.
The foliage of Oxeye daisies is generally spoon-shaped with a smooth edge, differing from the often lobed or toothed leaves of chrysanthemums.
Oxeye daisies are also known for their resilience and ability to thrive in various soil types, often found in wild meadows, whereas chrysanthemums are more commonly cultivated in gardens.
10. Marguerite Daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens)
Marguerite daisies, also known as Paris daisies, are perennial plants native to the Canary Islands. They feature daisy-like flowers with a central disc surrounded by radiating petals, typically in white, yellow, or pink hues.
While they share a similar appearance with chrysanthemums, marguerite daisies belong to a different genus and are not the same species.
The foliage of marguerite daisies is green, finely divided, and fern-like, contrasting with the broader, lobed leaves of chrysanthemums. Additionally, marguerite daisies bloom from spring to fall, whereas chrysanthemums typically flower in the autumn.
11. Strawflower (Helichrysum bracteatum)
Strawflowers, also known as golden everlastings, are native to Australia and are renowned for their papery, long-lasting blooms.
At first glance, their flowers resemble chrysanthemums; however, the 'petals' of strawflowers are actually modified leaves called bracts, which have a stiff, paper-like texture even when fresh.
This distinctive texture sets them apart from the softer petals of chrysanthemums. Strawflowers can be grown as short-lived perennials or annuals and are easily cultivated in average to dry soils, showcasing moderate drought tolerance.
12. Golden Everlasting (Xerochrysum bracteatum)
Golden everlasting, another name for Xerochrysum bracteatum, shares many characteristics with strawflowers, as they are the same species. The term 'golden everlasting' highlights the flower's enduring nature and vibrant yellow hues.
Like strawflowers, they possess papery bracts that retain their shape and colour when dried, making them popular in dried floral arrangements. Their ability to thrive in various habitats, from rainforest margins to deserts and subalpine areas, demonstrates their versatility.
13. New Zealand Everlasting Daisy (Anaphalioides bellidioides)
The New Zealand everlasting daisy, also known as Anaphalioides bellidioides, is a native shrub found throughout New Zealand. This low-growing plant features trailing shoots up to 50 cm long, with grey to green leaves that are glabrous on the topside and have a soft white underside.
The leaves are rounded and broad, measuring approximately 5–6 mm by 2–4 mm, ending abruptly to a sharp point at the apex.
The plant produces singular inflorescences about 2–3 cm in diameter, consisting of numerous hermaphrodite florets encased in outer bracts. The centre is yellow, while the outer petals are white and papery in texture.
14. Dwarf Everlasting (Helichrysum pumilum)
The dwarf everlasting, or Helichrysum pumilum, is a member of the Asteraceae family, commonly referred to as the daisy family. This species is characterized by its compact size and is native to regions in New Zealand.
Detailed information on its morphology and habitat preferences is limited; however, like other members of the Helichrysum genus, it likely exhibits the characteristic papery bracts that contribute to its 'everlasting' quality.
15. Florist's Daisy (Chrysanthemum × morifolium)
Florist's daisy, or Chrysanthemum × morifolium, is a popular late-blooming garden perennial. This species may be a hybrid between two other species, possibly Chrysanthemum indicum and C. japonicum.
It features large, multilayered blooms that come in various colours, including white and cream. The plant is commonly used in floral arrangements due to its vibrant and long-lasting flowers.
16. Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susans are vibrant flowers native to North America, known for their bright yellow petals surrounding a dark brown or black central cone. This central cone is a distinguishing feature that sets them apart from chrysanthemums, which typically have a more uniform, button-like centre.
The leaves of Black-eyed Susans are coarse and hairy, differing from the smoother foliage of chrysanthemums. They are hardy plants that bloom from summer to fall, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
While both flowers belong to the Asteraceae family, the prominent dark center and the texture of the leaves are key identifiers to differentiate Black-eyed Susans from chrysanthemums.
17. Coneflower
Coneflowers, particularly the purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), are herbaceous perennials native to central and eastern North America.
They feature large, daisy-like flowers with downward-sloping petals and a prominent, spiky central cone that protrudes outward, a characteristic that distinguishes them from the flatter centers of chrysanthemums.
Coneflowers bloom from late spring to early fall and are known for their drought tolerance and ability to attract pollinators.
18. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
Blanket flowers are native to North and South America and are known for their vibrant, daisy-like blooms that often feature a blend of red, orange, and yellow hues.
They have a similar appearance to chrysanthemums but are distinguished by their unique color patterns and slightly tubular petals. Blanket flowers bloom from early summer to fall and are valued for their long blooming period and ability to thrive in poor soils.
19. Tickseed (Coreopsis)
Tickseed, commonly known by its botanical name Coreopsis, is a genus encompassing over 100 species of flowering plants native to North and South America. These plants are admired for their bright, daisy-like flowers that come in shades of yellow, orange, and pink, instantly brightening any landscape.
The blooms typically feature a central disc surrounded by ray florets, similar to chrysanthemums. However, tickseed flowers usually have a more open and airy appearance, with fewer petals and a more delicate structure.
The foliage of tickseed is often fine and feathery, differing from the broader, lobed leaves of chrysanthemums.
20. Painted Daisy (Tanacetum coccineum)
The painted daisy, formerly classified as Chrysanthemum coccineum, is now recognized as Tanacetum coccineum. This perennial plant is cherished for its showy, daisy-like flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer.
The blooms, measuring about 3 inches (7 cm) in diameter, feature a large central golden disc surrounded by white, red, purple, or pink rays, offering a striking visual appeal. The foliage is finely divided and fern-like, emitting a pleasant aroma, which contrasts with the more robust leaves of chrysanthemums.
Painted daisies are not only valued for their ornamental beauty but also for their natural insect-repelling properties, as they contain pyrethrins, compounds used in organic insecticides.
Conclusion About The Flowers That Looks Like Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums may be one of the most recognisable flowers, but as we’ve explored, there are plenty of blooms that share their full, layered petals and striking colours.
From dahlias to asters, these 20 flowers that look like chrysanthemums each bring something unique—whether it's a difference in texture, bloom size, or growing conditions.
If you love chrysanthemums but want to experiment with other floral varieties, these alternatives are worth considering. Whether for gardening, floral arrangements, or simply appreciating nature’s beauty, understanding the subtle differences between these flowers can help you make the right choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Flowers That Looks Like Chrysanthemum
Do Flowers That Resemble Chrysanthemums Require The Same Care As Actual Chrysanthemums?
Not necessarily—while some may thrive under similar conditions, care requirements vary depending on the species. Factors like sunlight, watering frequency, and soil type differ among lookalike flowers. Always check the specific needs of each flower to ensure healthy growth.
Should I Choose A Chrysanthemum Alternative If I Want A Longer-Lasting Bloom?
Yes, certain chrysanthemum lookalikes, such as dahlias and camellias, tend to last longer depending on the variety and care.
Some alternatives also have extended blooming seasons or better resistance to environmental changes. If longevity is a priority, consider flowers known for their durability.
When Is The Best Time To Plant Flowers That Look Like Chrysanthemums?
Most chrysanthemum-like flowers thrive when planted in early spring or late summer, depending on the variety. Perennial options like asters and marigolds can be started from seeds or seedlings during these periods. Always check the specific growing season for each flower to optimise blooming.
How Do I Tell The Difference Between Chrysanthemums And Similar-Looking Flowers?
Chrysanthemums typically have tightly packed, layered petals with a dense, rounded bloom structure. In contrast, lookalikes like asters and zinnias often have more open or daisy-like formations. Leaf shape, stem structure, and blooming patterns are also key distinguishing factors.
Are There Any Symbolic Meanings Behind Flowers That Look Like Chrysanthemums?
Yes, many chrysanthemum lookalikes carry their own meanings—dahlias symbolise elegance and inner strength, while asters represent patience and love.
Marigolds are often linked to warmth and remembrance, while camellias signify admiration and devotion. Though visually similar, each flower holds a unique cultural and symbolic significance.
