Callistephus chinensis

Callistephus chinensis (China aster) — a “most beautiful crown” of a flower brought from China to Europe in the 18th century, prized for late-summer cutting. The botanical home of our aster range.

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Callistephus chinensis — the China aster

Callistephus chinensis, the China aster, is a colourful annual in the daisy family (Asteraceae) treasured for late-summer and autumn bloom. It is the species behind our aster range within the flower seed collection and a favourite for cutting.

History & origin

As its name suggests, the China aster is native to China. It was introduced to Europe in the early 18th century, when a French Jesuit missionary sent seed back from Beijing to the Royal Garden in Paris. From there it caused a sensation: European and later American breeders developed it into the huge range of forms grown today, and it became one of the most popular cut flowers of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Its botanical name captures its charm: Callistephus joins the Greek kallistos (“most beautiful”) and stephos (“crown”), while chinensis means “from China.”

Botanical characteristics

An upright annual from around 20 to 80 cm, the China aster bears daisy-like flowers in pompon, ostrich-plume, single and quilled forms, in shades of pink, purple, blue, red and white. Its long stems and good vase life make it a cutting-garden staple, while its open, nectar-rich blooms feed late-season pollinators. Compact types also suit our container range.

Growing Callistephus chinensis from seed

Sow indoors in spring and plant out after the last frost, or sow direct into warm soil. To avoid the soil-borne aster wilt, grow them in fresh ground each year and water at the base rather than over the leaves. Successional sowings stretch the display for weeks. Our flower growing guide and flower sowing calendar cover the timing.

Ready to grow asters? Browse the varieties or learn the basics first.

Related categories: Aster · Cut Flowers · Pollinator Flowers · Container Flowers · All Flower Seeds

At SeedsChoice, every order ships from Meppel, NL with fast, tracked EU delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Callistephus chinensis?
It is the botanical name for the China aster, a colourful annual cut flower.

Where does it originate?
From China; it was introduced to Europe in the early 18th century.

What does the name mean?
Callistephus means “most beautiful crown” in Greek, and chinensis means “from China.”

When do China asters flower?
From late summer into autumn, as many summer annuals fade.

How do I avoid aster wilt?
Grow them in fresh ground each year and water at the base, not over the leaves.