SNOWY PHOENIX

Chrysanthemum variety 'Zhenya', also known as 'Snowy Phoenix', is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family, belonging to the group of bushy cut-flower chrysanthemums. The plant forms dense, sturdy, and leafy stems reaching up to 90 centimeters in height. The leaves are lobed, resembling oak leaves in shape, and are dark green in color. The flowers are double, medium-sized — about 6 centimeters in diameter — with pure white petals that emit a distinctive bitter-pine aroma.

Chrysanthemum 'Zhenya' is one of the latest-blooming varieties, widely cultivated on private and dacha plots. Blooming begins in September and continues until the first frosts and snowfall, making this variety especially valuable for autumn floral arrangements. Under favorable conditions, the plant can be grown year-round. For successful growth, chrysanthemums require sunny locations and proper temperature conditions. The USDA hardiness zone for this variety is 5a, corresponding to temperatures from -26.1°C to -28.9°C.

For overwintering in open ground, chrysanthemums should be pruned and covered with agrofabric. A wire mesh frame can be used, filling the space between the mesh and the plant with dry leaves for additional cold protection. Bushes should be pinched and pruned, leaving one to three buds per stem for optimal flowering. Cut flowers remain fresh for 10-12 days, making this variety popular in floristry and ornamental gardening.