Contents
Description
Callistephus Chinensis, commonly known as the Chinese aster, is an annual plant that is native to China and Korea. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its colorful flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Callistephus |
Appearance
Chinese asters have a variety of flower colors, including white, pink, red, blue, and purple. The flowers are daisy-like with a yellow center and can be single or double. They can grow up to 2 inches in diameter and are held on long stems that rise above the foliage. The leaves are green and lance-shaped, and the plant has a bushy growth habit.
Care Guide
Chinese asters are easy to care for and can be grown in containers or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. They also benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Chinese asters prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chinese asters are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control pest infestations. Good air circulation and proper watering can also help prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Chinese asters are native to China and Korea but are now widely cultivated as an ornamental plant around the world. They grow best in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil but can tolerate a range of soil types and temperatures. They are often used in cut flower arrangements due to their long stems and colorful flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I deadhead Chinese asters?
A: Deadheading Chinese asters involves removing the spent flowers by cutting the stem just below the flower head. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Q: Can Chinese asters be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Chinese asters can be easily grown from seed. Sow the seeds directly in the garden bed after the last frost or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Q: How often should I fertilize Chinese asters?
A: Chinese asters benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: How tall do Chinese asters grow?
A: Chinese asters can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Callistephus chinensis ‘King Size’
- Callistephus chinensis ‘Milady Mixed’
- Callistephus chinensis ‘Powder Puff Mixed’
- Callistephus chinensis ‘Tower Chamois’
References
- “Callistephus chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b833>
- “Callistephus chinensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9118/i-Callistephus-chinensis-i/Details>
- “Chinese Aster.” University of Illinois Extension. Accessed August 2021. <https://extension.illinois.edu/annuals/chineseaster.cfm>
