Callistephus chinensis Matsumoto White

*New for 2026!

Common name: China Aster

Untreated seed; packed by volume. Available in two pack sizes: 

Gardener packet approx 135 seeds; Grower packet approx 550 seeds.

Half hardy annual. DTM 110-120.

China asters bloom through late summer and autumn and are the perfect seasonal accompaniment to dahlias, grasses and other autumn flowers. There is a wide range of colour and bloom size in Callistephus varieties. We love the Matsumoto series - this variety produces sprays of lovely button-like blooms are great filler flowers in autumn arrangements.

Sow under cover four weeks before your last frost date; sow outside after the risk of frost has passed. Sowing temp 21-24°C; germination between 10-14 days in optimum conditions. Annual asters are susceptible to Aster Yellows, so cover with insect netting to protect the plants from leaf hoppers which spread the disease.

Cut when the outer petals are just lifting away from the bud and place immediately into water; no special conditioning required. For dried flowers, cut when the flower is open; strip excess foliage, bunch and hang upside down to dry.

Vase life: 7-10 days