China aster (Callistephus chinensis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

The China aster requires moderate watering compared to similar trees. This species grows best if it is regularly watered in well-draining soil. Regular watering is especially important for the first two years after planting. This species should be watered near the root base after the first two inches of soil have become dry.

Fertilization

The china aster should be fertilized with a water-soluble, quick release fertilizer every two weeks during the active growing season between spring and fall. This species can also be fertilized with an organic fertilizer like fish emulsion. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers should not be used.

Pruning

Deadhead (or remove) withered flowers after flowering.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Clay, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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China aster

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

2 to 11

Planting Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

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Questions About China aster

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my China aster?

To water China aster, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, China aster is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for China aster as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one China aster that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown China aster, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.

What should I do if I water my China aster too much or too little?

The remedy for underwatering China aster is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your China aster is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your China aster that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered China aster, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.

How often should I water my China aster?

China aster needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your China aster. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your China aster grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering China aster that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown China aster a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.

How much water does my China aster need?

There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your China aster. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your China aster. Typically, you should give your China aster about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing China aster in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.

How can I tell if i'm watering my China aster enough?

It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your China aster. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, China aster are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your China aster may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your China aster as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.

How should I water my China aster through the seasons?

You can expect your China aster’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your China aster, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of China aster that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your China aster is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.

How should I water my China aster at different growth stages?

China aster will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your China aster as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your China aster will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your China aster will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.

What's the difference between watering China aster indoors and outdoors?

There are several reasons why most China aster grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that China aster needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your China aster water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.

Is pruning necessary for my China aster?

China aster is a kind of annual plant so it doesn't need much pruning. You only need to cut off and clean the diseased, yellow or dropped leaves and stems during its growing period. This will help your China aster to stay away from pathogens infection.

How do I prune my China aster?

During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off. If the whole piece of leave is discolored or infected, you will need to cut it off completely. In other situations, you will only need to cut off the discolored or infected part on certain leaves. China aster above the ground will die and dry up in the winter, and the dead plants need to be cleaned up.

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my China aster?

China aster leaves are delicate, so take care not to score or bruise them. Unless the leaves are withered or heavily discolored, do not prune the leaves from the lowermost branches unless they’re damaged. They typically grow the largest, so they supply the plant with critical energy to keep it growing right. Please prevent the wounds from water after pruning until they are fully recovered. Remember always sterilize the tools before pruning. When the pruning is finished, please throw all the waste leaves and stems into the trashbins to avoid diseases and bugs.

Are there any tips for pruning my China aster?

Sterilize all the tools before pruning; unclean tools will pass pathogens to the plant through wounds;
Prune on sunny days because the new cuts will be infected by pathogens if they're distained by rain or water.
Throw all the waste leaves and stems into trashbins, they will easily rot and attract diseases and bugs

When should/shouldn't I prune my China aster?

Expect to prune your China aster every week if it’s growing well or every two weeks if it grows slowly. It is always good to prune it on sunny days because if you prune it on rainy days, the rainwater will distain the cuts and cause the whole plant to be infected.

What should I look for when pruning my China aster in different seasons?

Because China aster is an annual plant, the pruning should take place basically during the seasons that the plant grows rapidly. During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off.

How much sunlight should China aster get per day to grow healthily?

You must expose the plants to at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. They prefer more exposure to the morning light, especially in the summer. The China aster needs full sun and more sunlight that it can get. The more light these species get, the more they can manufacture food, produce beautiful blooms, and survive.

What type of sunlight does China aster need?

The China aster grows best under full sunlight. It's best not to crowd them together so they can get exposure to the sun evenly. The leaves shouldn't be starved with sunlight. If planted in pots, try to expose the herbaceous flowers in windows with direct sun and ensure they receive full sunlight regardless of the months.

They don't tend to do well in partial or filtered light as this will not produce strong stems and healthy flowers. It's best if the China aster is always exposed to the sun.

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect China aster from sun and heat damage?

When the temperature rises above 90℉(32℃), the China aster can get damaged by extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to many hours of sun. It's always ideal for providing some shade from the light in the afternoon in the summer. It's always important to keep in mind that the sunlight in the summer is stronger than the one in the winter. Sunlight exposure is also 50% longer in the summer than in the winter.

If the China aster is too stressed with sunlight, you might want to keep them fully hydrated. Water them when the top of the soil is about 2 inches dry, and move the plants indoors if it's too hot outside. This is the case if they are planted in containers.

It can be normal for the plant leaves to wilt during the day. Generally, they can recover at night. However, when you notice that the China aster is still drooping, this means that the plant is losing water fast, and you need to water them.

Should I protect China aster from sun exposure?

The China aster does not need any protection from the sun. In fact, they love the sun, and some species are heliotropic. Plant them in south-facing gardens whenever possible so they can be exposed from morning to afternoon. While the sun can benefit them, some may experience a sunburn. You might offer protection from the afternoon and midday sun through a shade of a tree or a wall.

Growing the China aster in shady areas is impossible because the larger flowers would require a lot of energy to grow and produce. Always provide the lighting conditions and set them in an area with full sun for best results.

What will happen if China aster gets inadequate sunlight?

When the China aster does not get adequate sunlight, or they are not placed in full sun locations, it's worth noting that the photosynthetic process will slow down. A lack of sunlight will cause the stems to become more leggy since they become thin and long since they tend to seek too much sunlight. They will not bloom and produce seeds in the shade.

Inadequate sunlight will also mean that the older leaves can die, the color of the new ones is lighter than the old foliage, and the new growth is smaller than the last ones.

The China aster indeed loves the sun so much. However, they can wilt when exposed to excessive heat and ultraviolet light during the extreme summer months, so be careful. You might want to cover them with a net that has a green shade, especially in the summer, to prevent the leaves and the flowers from scorching. When they are indoors, reduce the heat with the help of a fan.

Does China aster need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

When the China aster is growing, they need more light than their mature counterparts. The younger ones should receive adequate light, but they might not be prepared for sudden full sunlight, especially if they are grown in a nursery. They can be more sensitive to the summer sun, so the lighting should be gradual and slow.

How much light does China aster need for photosynthesis?

During summer or late spring, the China aster needs 6 to 8 hours of direct light every single day. This is whether they are planted outdoors. If the China aster is planted in pots or you're growing them in the winter, they need direct fluorescent lights that help them grow better. Make sure to place them in an indoor area where they are facing south or east so they can have enough sunlight for photosynthesis.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and China aster?

When transplanting the plants, they should not be exposed to sudden sunlight. Give the China aster to grow and mature before transplanting outside. Some species of herbaceous plants can grow taller and might cast a shade on other young plants. Allow between 80 to 100 days of growing season before planting another batch to ensure that every plant receives more than enough sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

Make sure that the China aster receives the best light possible, especially if it's planted in a nursery. These are sun-loving plants, but too much sunlight with a very hot temperature is also detrimental to their growth. Indoor lights should be replaced with natural sunlight as much as possible since these species crave this every day.

What is the optimal temperature for China aster?

The best temperature for China aster depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once China aster has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then China aster may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, China aster will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of China aster. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for China aster to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling China aster

If this is the first year of your China aster outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year China aster, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your China aster inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant China aster in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year China aster should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

How can I protect China aster from extreme temperatures?

If cold temperatures (below 15℉(-10℃)) do occur during the growing season, there are a few measures you can take to help protect China aster from frost or cold damage. If you’re growing China aster in a container, then the container can simply be brought inside in bright, indirect light until the temperatures rise up over the lower threshold again. Another option that’s better suited for ground-planted China aster is to use mulch or horticultural fabric to create an insulated barrier around the plant, which will protect the plant from frost and cold wind.

For temperatures that are hotter than 80℉(27℃) in the shade during the day, be careful to only expose China aster to six hours or less of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning hours. Putting up shade cloth, or a fine plastic mesh, can help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the plant during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install a misting system that allows for a slow release of cooling mist around the base of the plant during the day to lower ground temperatures.

Dormant season temperature recommendations for China aster

During the cold winter months, China aster needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to China aster, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from China aster. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, China aster will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

Why do I need to fertilize my China aster?

Plants need nutrients to survive; most gardeners, regardless of experience, are well aware of this factor. However, without food, China aster will die out soon after the first pollination. Therefore, providing the right type of nutrients in the right amounts is the best way to keep China aster going throughout the blooming season and producing large, beautiful flowers.

Fertilizer also helps China aster build a large, healthy root system. This plant needs all the help it can get since its root system is very thin and easily damaged. Fertilizing at planting helps China aster build a solid root structure that not only provides stability to the plant, but also sets the stage for a sensational flowering performance. When timed correctly, fertilization can greatly extend China aster's flowering period.

When is the best time to fertilize my China aster?

China aster puts on tremendous growth early in the growing season, once the danger of the last frost has passed. It’s during this time that China aster should be fertilized; more specifically, during planting. The idea is to apply when the plant is first planted in the ground or in planters; however you choose to plant it. This will be the only dose of fertilizer until later in the year, when blooms are in full force.

Once the season is in full swing and China aster has opened most of its blooms at full size, it’s time to start fertilizing again. Around the time when blooms are at peak output, begin fertilizing again once every three to four weeks, as weather permits. Then, after China aster starts to put out fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there’s no need to fertilize when the plant can’t produce any more blooms.

When should I avoid fertilizing my China aster?

While regular fertilizing is important for China aster, it absolutely can be applied at the wrong time. Some situations call for holding back the fertilizer once in a while. These are usually climate related, but they also include a variety of controllable factors. Essentially, when something is wrong with the plant, the soil, or the climate, wait it out until things have been smoothed over and the plant has recovered.

An example of when not to fertilize is if there are severe or unexpected changes in the weather. If a cold nap suddenly comes in the middle of summer, wait until it’s warm again to start fertilizing. The same stands for if the soil becomes too dry or too packed to absorb anything. At this point, fertilizer will be going straight to the roots, rather than being diffused by soil before it reaches them. As you can imagine, the roots of China aster aren’t very fond of that.

When temperatures soar during the hottest parts of the day into the 90-degree fahrenheit range, don’t apply fertilizer. Since fertilizer can be broken down at various speeds depending on temperature, it’s especially important not to allow hot temperatures to break it down too quickly. Pests or diseases should also be treated and cleared up before re-fertilizing.

What type of fertilizer does my China aster need?

Most types of China aster need the same general balance of nutrients from fertilizer. These should come in the form of a fertilizer that’s formulated specifically for high-yield blooming plants. A fertilizer with a higher level of phosphorus is the best option. This type of fertilizer has a higher P number in its NPK number, for example 10-30-10.

Several fertilizer brands sell a fertilizer that’s perfect for blooming plants like China aster, which are an easy and fuss-free way to provide the right nutrients. If you do choose to use a pre-mixed fertilizer, follow the directions on the package to prevent China aster from getting too much or too little fertilizer, both of which can cause the plant to grow poorly or even wilt entirely.

How do I fertilize my China aster?

Depending on the type of fertilizer you have, specific fertilizing instructions may vary. However, there are a few general tips for applying most types of fertilizer to China aster. The first fertilizer application, which should be when you first plant China aster, will likely consist of mixing the recommended amount of fertilizer into the soil before planting and watering in the China aster.

Subsequent fertilizing may look a little different. For pellet fertilizers, simply mix the pellets into the top inch of soil around the outer edge of the plant, where the roots are. Water them in very well at first, then water regularly after that. Other fertilizers may be mixed into a watering can and applied just like a regular watering. Follow any instructions on fertilizer packaging for consistency, but if you’d rather keep things on a regular schedule, shoot for every three to four weeks.

What happens if I fertilize my China aster too much?

Over-fertilizing is a very easy mistake to make for first-time gardeners, or even for experienced gardeners trying out a new product. Fortunately, China aster makes this issue known very well by displaying several signs of distress. You may notice that its leaves are yellowing quickly, the foliage may wilt, or new blooms may be under-developed. These are all clear signs of too much food.

When you fertilize China aster too frequently, you create uninhabitable soil conditions. Soil may become too hot, which is a term used to describe when soil is too saturated with minerals, nutrients, or compost, and ends up burning the roots of anything planted in it. It’s a good idea to flush out the soil well once a month or so, just by watering twice as much as normal with good drainage.

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More About How-Tos

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Feng shui direction

South

China aster is believed to enhance positive energy due to its vibrant and colorful flowers. Placing it in the South is said to stimulate growth and prosperity by harnessing the fiery element which governs that direction.

Water

Twice per week

China aster originates from regions with seasonal climates, preferring evenly moist soil. Ensure to water only when necessary to prevent overwatering, and always check soil moisture beforehand.

Lighting

Full sun

China aster primarily thrives under extensive exposure to sun, although can withstand a certain degree of shade. Originating from an environment with vast sunlight exposure, its healthiest growth occurs under such conditions. Limitations in light exposure can stifle its development, while excessive exposure doesn't commonly harm the plant.

Temperature

-10 to 35 ℃

China aster is native to temperate climates, favoring temperatures between 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). As the seasons change, minor adjustments may need to be made for optimum growth.

Transplant

1-2 feet

Ideally, transplant china aster during mid to late spring, as the mild weather provides optimal growing conditions. Choose a location with well-draining soil and ample sunlight. If necessary, add organic matter to improve soil fertility. Remember to water regularly and gently for successful transplanting.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for China aster based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Solutions: Bacterial infections need to be treated quickly to prevent the spread to neighboring, healthy plants, potentially wiping out large sections of your indoor or outdoor garden. In mild cases: Use sterilized (10% bleach solution) pruning shears or scissors to remove any infected plant parts, making sure to dispose of them off site. Use a copper-based bactericide to treat the unaffected foliage, as well as the soil, and neighboring plants. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label. In severe cases, where more than half the leaves are affected: Remove all of the infected plants from the garden, disposing of them off site. Treat the soil and neighboring plants using a copper-based bactericide. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label.

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Edges of deciduous forests

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Yellow

Pink

Purple

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

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.

Symbolism

Pursuit of trustworthy love, patience, charm

Usages

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.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Daisy

Genus

Species

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Autumn

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Griffith's ash

Griffith's ash (Fraxinus griffithii) is a plant species that flowers from May to June. Griffith's ash is native to the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, China, Bangladesh and India. This species is cultivated as an ornamental plant in Australia.

Griffith's ash is a tall, leafy tree. Its beautiful leaves turn yellow or fuchsia in fall, adding beauty to your landscape. Griffith's ash trees grow quickly, and don't take long to grow into a tall tree that allows you to rest in its shade. They also have beautiful flowers that attract butterflies and bees. Their fruit attracts birds, which adds vitality to your yard. Griffith's ash trees grow well as long as you provide sufficient sunlight and water.

Elephant bush

Elephant bush (*Portulacaria afra*) is a succulent native to South Africa, easily recognized by its small, rounded green leaves and crimson stems. This cute semi-evergreen succulent is cultivated as an ornamental, most commonly in escaping, and as a bonsai plant.

Summer

Elephant bush is often potted as an ornamental plant, but can also grow as a bush if planted in a semi-shady area of the garden. It has evergreen succulent leaves and blooms occasionally with lovely pink flowers. It's very adaptable, doesn't need much water, and can be grown in a slightly dry environment where it's warm and sunny, requiring only simple care.

Peony

Peony is a perennial herbaceous bushy plant native to central and eastern Asia. It is highly regarded for its lush, white, pink, or crimson rose-like flowers, with pronounced yellow stamens. White peony was first introduced to England in the mid-18th century, and today there are several hundred cultivars common in temperate gardens around the world.

Spring

Peonies are famous ornamental plants, and are easily maintained in pots or gardens. Peonies can be divided into two groups: Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese herbaceous peony) is a perennial herb, while Paeonia suffruticosa (tree peony) is a perennial woody plant. Tree peonies bloom in late spring, and Chinese herbaceous peony blooms in late spring and early summer. The flowers of peonies are large, fragrant, bright, and colorful.

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Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Fragrant plantain lily See More The trademark feature of Asia-native plantain lilies is the numerous glossy oval leaves with deep parallel veins. The Fragrant plantain lily is additionally decorated with strongly fragrant, trumpet-shaped, large white flowers, which are unique in the genus. Hosta plantaginea is one of the favorite cultivatedContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

Plant Collection Best Annual Plant to Grow Common sunflower See More The Common sunflower is recognizable for its bright flower on a very tall stem. It is often grown in gardens. These flowers have been important in culture: they were worshipped by the ancient Inca people, and today, they represent eco-friendly movements. The artist VincentContinue reading “Best Annual Plant to Grow”

Deadhead (or remove) withered flowers after flowering.

Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Golden pothos See More The Golden pothos is a popular flowering house plant that’s commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including “devil’s ivy,” because it is so hard to kill, and can grow in the dark. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, soContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

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China aster

Callistephus chinensis

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.

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for China aster

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Clay, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About China aster

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my China aster?

What should I do if I water my China aster too much or too little?

How often should I water my China aster?

How much water does my China aster need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my China aster enough?

How should I water my China aster through the seasons?

How should I water my China aster at different growth stages?

What's the difference between watering China aster indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my China aster?

How do I prune my China aster?

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my China aster?

Are there any tips for pruning my China aster?

When should/shouldn't I prune my China aster?

What should I look for when pruning my China aster in different seasons?

How much sunlight should China aster get per day to grow healthily?

What type of sunlight does China aster need?

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect China aster from sun and heat damage?

Should I protect China aster from sun exposure?

What will happen if China aster gets inadequate sunlight?

Does China aster need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does China aster need for photosynthesis?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and China aster?

What is the optimal temperature for China aster?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling China aster

How can I protect China aster from extreme temperatures?

Dormant season temperature recommendations for China aster

Why do I need to fertilize my China aster?

When is the best time to fertilize my China aster?

When should I avoid fertilizing my China aster?

What type of fertilizer does my China aster need?

How do I fertilize my China aster?

What happens if I fertilize my China aster too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for China aster based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

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Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

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Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

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Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Edges of deciduous forests

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Yellow

Pink

Purple

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

China aster

Symbolism

Pursuit of trustworthy love, patience, charm

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Family

Daisy

Genus

Species

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Related Plants

Trailing jade

Peperomia rotundifolia

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