The china aster is best known for its bright flowers, which can be purple, pink, red, or white. It is native to China and Korea, making the origin of the common name, china aster quite obvious. The plants are relatively susceptible to diseases, so gardeners must watch them closely.
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Annual, Perennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer, Fall
Harvest Time
15 cm to 1 m
Plant Height
30 cm to 45 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2 cm to 5 cm
Flower Size
Purple
Fruit Color
White, Yellow, Pink, Purple, Red, Blue, Lavender
Flower Color
Green, Red, White, Yellow, Purple, Pink
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer, Fall
Growth Season
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Distribution
Culture
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Care Guide
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Common Diseases
Images of China aster
Distribution of China aster
Distribution Map
China aster is native to the deciduous forests of east Asia. It has naturalized across much of central Asia and Europe, as well as a handful of other countries, due to its desirability as a garden ornamental.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Edges of deciduous forests
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Culture
Garden Use
China aster is a herbaceous annual commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its long-lasting beautiful summer blooms and diversity. Its varying heights make it suitable for borders. China aster is appropriate for Cottage and Pollinator gardens. Suggested companion plants include Black-Eyed Susan and Snapdragon to make color contrasts.
Symbolism
Pursuit of trustworthy love, patience, charm
Interesting Facts
There is a German divination rhyme where one picks the petals off of the china aster flower one by one. With each petal picked, one says "he loves me" or "he loves me not", alternating until the last petal. This last petal remaining determines the answer whether "He loves me" or "He loves me not".
Name Story
China aster: It is planted all over the world for its use as a cut flower. It is often thought of as a species only discovered in modern times, but it has existed in Europe since 1728. In China, it has a 2,000-year history of farming and it can be said to that it is native to China, which is also why it is called China aster.
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Water:
Originating from humid environments, china aster thrives with consistent moisture and prefers moderate hydration, tolerating brief dry spells. Watering twice a week is ideal for lush growth, particularly during the active growing season to promote vibrant blooms.
Fertilize:
China aster requires high phosphorus fertilizers for root and flower development. Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during growth, at half strength. Stop in late summer to prevent frost damage. Over-fertilizing can hinder flowering, so adjust based on seasons and incorporate compost for nutrients.
Pruning:
China aster thrives on early to late spring pruning, including pinching young growth for bushiness and deadheading spent flowers for extended blooms. Prune according to growth cycles, avoiding heavy cuts during dormancy to enhance vigor and aesthetics. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent damage and disease.
Propagation:
China aster is propagated by surface sowing fresh seeds, requiring light for germination. Keep soil moist and warm; germination occurs in 1-2 weeks. Thin seedlings and transplant them to a sunny location with well-draining soil and sufficient spacing.
Repotting:
China aster requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root growth.
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