Contents
Description
Aster Indicus, also known as Indian aster or Chinese aster, is a beautiful annual flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to China and India, but it is now widely cultivated around the world as an ornamental plant. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, producing numerous showy flowers with bright colors such as pink, purple, blue, and white. The flowers are typically in bloom from late summer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Callistephus |
Appearance
Aster Indicus has a bushy growth habit, with multiple stems branching out from the base. The leaves are dark green, ovate to lanceolate in shape, and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are daisy-like, with a central disc surrounded by numerous ray flowers. The disc can be yellow or brown, while the ray flowers can be pink, purple, blue, white, or a combination of these colors. The flowers can be single or double, and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Aster Indicus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure its optimal growth and health.
Water
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells or hot weather.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. This will promote healthy growth and encourage more blooms.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting to ensure good drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Hardiness Zones
Aster Indicus is an annual plant that is typically grown as a summer or fall bloomer. It can be grown in hardiness zones 3-10, but it is typically grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aster Indicus is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to some problems.
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Caterpillars
- Thrips
Diseases
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
- Leaf spot
- Botrytis blight
Habitat
Aster Indicus is native to China and India, where it grows in a variety of habitats such as meadows, fields, and hillsides. It is now widely cultivated around the world as an ornamental plant, and it can be found in gardens, parks, and other landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Aster Indicus plant?
A: You should fertilize your Aster Indicus plant every 2-3 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to promote healthy growth and more blooms.
Q: Can I grow Aster Indicus in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Aster Indicus in a container as long as the container is at least 12 inches wide and deep. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How do I deadhead my Aster Indicus plant?
A: To deadhead your Aster Indicus plant, simply pinch or cut off the spent flowers just below the base of the flower head. This will encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from going to seed too soon.
Q: How do I propagate Aster Indicus?
A: Aster Indicus can be propagated by seed, which can be sown directly in the garden in spring or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until they germinate.
Related Plants
- Callistephus chinensis (China Aster)
- Callistephus eryngiifolius (Eryngo-leaved Aster)
- Callistephus lanceolatus (Lance-leaved Aster)
- Callistephus uniflorus (Annual China Aster)
References
- “Aster Indicus – Chinese Aster.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287732.
- “Callistephus chinensis.” Plant Finder, www.gardenia.net/plant/callistephus-chinensis-china-aster.
- “Indian Aster.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/104085/i-callistephus-indicus-i/details.
