Aster chinensis 'Silver Blue'
China aster
This compact annual produces large, double blooms with soft white petals delicately tipped in pale lavender-blue, creating a luminous, two-toned effect. Flowering from late summer into autumn, it provides valuable colour when many other plants are fading.
The peony-type flowers sit on strong, upright stems that make excellent cut flowers, lasting well in the vase. Aster chinensis ‘Silver Blue’ thrives in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, and benefits from regular deadheading to extend the display. Plants may need staking when in full bloom to support the weight of the large flower heads. Ideal for borders, cutting gardens, and late-season displays, it pairs beautifully with dahlias, rudbeckias, and ornamental grasses.
The peony-type flowers sit on strong, upright stems that make excellent cut flowers, lasting well in the vase. Aster chinensis ‘Silver Blue’ thrives in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, and benefits from regular deadheading to extend the display. Plants may need staking when in full bloom to support the weight of the large flower heads. Ideal for borders, cutting gardens, and late-season displays, it pairs beautifully with dahlias, rudbeckias, and ornamental grasses.
How to care for Aster chinensis Silver Blue:
Plant in a sunny, sheltered position in fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells, especially while the plants are establishing and during flowering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers and extend the season.
Tall varieties may need staking to keep stems upright in wind or rain. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of mildew, and remove any affected leaves promptly. For cut flowers, pick when blooms are just opening for the best vase life.
Tall varieties may need staking to keep stems upright in wind or rain. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of mildew, and remove any affected leaves promptly. For cut flowers, pick when blooms are just opening for the best vase life.
Sowing instructions:
Sow Aster seeds indoors from early spring, using trays or pots filled with good-quality seed compost. Lightly cover the seeds and keep the compost moist but not waterlogged. Maintain a temperature of around 18-21°C (64-70°F) for germination, which usually takes 7-14 days.
Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Harden off gradually before planting outside after the last frost, spacing plants to allow good airflow and reduce the risk of mildew.
Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Harden off gradually before planting outside after the last frost, spacing plants to allow good airflow and reduce the risk of mildew.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
approx 25 seeds
£4.99
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
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