Fun Facts – History of the Homecoming Mum
At Plush in a Rush, we are a leading manufacturer of wholesale homecoming mum supplies. We feel it is our duty to explain briefly what a homecoming mum is for all of our customers who purchase our homecoming mum supplies.
Chrysanthemums, the flower at the heart of homecoming mums
The Chrysanthemum & Its Origins
The chrysanthemum was first grown in China over 3,500 years ago, known as "Chu." Ancient uses included headache medicine, culinary petals, and brewed leaves. The city of Chu-Hsien is even named after the flower.
In Japan, the mum became a royal symbol. The Emperor’s crest is a chrysanthemum, and the nation still celebrates it through the Festival of Happiness. “Kikumon” crests signified nobility and honor.
The Chrysanthemum in the West
Western culture first encountered the chrysanthemum around 1753, thanks to botanist Karl Linnaeus. He named it from the Greek “chrysos” (gold) and “anthemon” (flower). It arrived in colonial America shortly thereafter.
Today in the U.S., particularly in Texas, mums are closely tied to high school homecoming celebrations. Many remember them as corsages worn at football games. Check out our Pinterest board for examples of today’s mums.
A modern-day Texas homecoming mum
Silk mums with ribbons and school colors
Chrysanthemums Today
Today’s homecoming mums use silk flowers adorned with charms, ribbons, bells, and sometimes stuffed mascots. Plush in a Rush offers supplies that make each mum standout.
Interestingly, while Americans associate mums with celebration, in countries like Belgium and Austria, the chrysanthemum is often seen as a memorial flower used in grave ceremonies.
