Also known as Annual-Aster · China Aster · Garden Aster
Chinese Aster (Callistephus chinensis) are vibrant annuals offering a wide range of flower colors and forms, perfect for cutting gardens and summer bedding.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged soil; water at the base.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-24°C. Can tolerate cooler nights but dislikes extreme heat.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during active growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, especially during active growth and flowering. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases on the foliage and flowers.
Reduce watering slightly as the plant matures and during cooler weather.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and prevent the plant from going to seed.
Remove any yellowing or diseased foliage promptly to maintain plant health and appearance.
Chinese Asters are typically grown from seed, sown directly outdoors after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks prior. Seeds germinate best in well-draining soil with light exposure.
Thin seedlings to the strongest plants once they have a few true leaves.
Chinese Asters are generally treated as annuals and are not typically repotted. If grown in containers, they may benefit from fresh potting mix annually. For perennial varieties (less common for C.
chinensis), repot in spring before new growth begins, ensuring the new pot is only slightly larger.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Aster (Callistephus chinensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Callistephus |
| Species | Callistephus chinensis |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
