The original species is a native of China, about 60cm (24 in.) high with single white flowers. Over the years, however, breeding has produced many types that differ in height, number of branching stems, habit of growth, shape and size of the flower heads and shape and arrangement of the florets. A tremendous range of colours also exists. Some varieties are even bicolored.

The Chinese aster is an annual plant, 20 – 70cm (8 - 24 in.) high, depending on variety. The flower heads, borne on the tips of the main stem or branching stems, measure 3-12cm (l to 5 in.) across. Flowers are composed of outer ray petals and quilled florets in the centre.

The present wide assortment is classified according to the shape of the florets into quilled varieties, varieties with both quilled and ray florets, and ones with only broader ray florets; they are also divided according to height (tall, intermediate and dwarf).

Asters have many uses. Cut flowers will last 8 to 10 days in water. Low-growing varieties may be transferred to flower pots and balcony boxes just before flowering. The most suitable types of asters for balconies and patios are the low and dwarf varieties, which are effective in shallow containers. They do not mix well with other species of plants.

Growing: Asters grow best in rich well-draining soil and in a sunny position. They are intolerant of wet soil and ideally should be planted in different sites each year to prevent the possibility of attack by fusarium wilt. Flowers should be removed as soon as they have faded to promote the growth of further blooms. Preventive measures should be taken against aphids. When pricking out, handle the plants with care, never over water, but do not let the soil dry out. A sunny situation should be chosen for the aster bed, which should be prepared as soon as possible, making sure that drainage is good. Planting outdoors is usually possible in May.

Sowing: The seeds should be sown from March to April under glass. Germination temperature 20°C (68°F). The seedlings should be planted outside 25—40cm (10 to 16 in.) apart from early May. Light spring frosts will not harm the plants. The seed may also be direct sown in April to May where the plants are to flower, but in this case flowering will start later.

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