Aster Seed ( Annual )

Gremlin Yellow Aster is a delightful dwarf China Aster that produces an abundance of cheerful golden-yellow blooms atop compact, well-branched plants. The fully double flowers resemble miniature chrysanthemums, with densely packed petals creating bright, rounded blooms that stand out beautifully in flower beds, borders, containers, and cutting gardens. Its compact size and prolific flowering make it especially valuable for gardeners seeking vibrant color without sacrificing precious garden space.

The Gremlin series was developed for uniform growth, heavy flowering, and outstanding garden performance. Throughout summer and into fall, plants become covered with sunny yellow blossoms that attract attention from across the garden while providing a valuable source of late-season color.

Garden Uses

• Flower beds and borders
• Container gardens
• Patio planters
• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Mass color displays
• Edging plantings

Growing Information

Gremlin Yellow Aster thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 10 to 16 inches tall and develop a naturally bushy habit that produces numerous flowering stems. The compact growth makes them ideal for front-of-border plantings and decorative containers.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. Regular removal of spent flowers encourages additional blooms and helps maintain a tidy appearance throughout the season.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 8-12 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The bright yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Because asters bloom later in the season than many annual flowers, they provide an important nectar source when pollinators are actively preparing for seasonal changes.

Historical Significance

China Asters have been cultivated since the 18th century and quickly became favorites in European and American gardens. Originally native to China and Korea, these flowers were prized for their large blooms and extended flowering season. Dwarf varieties such as the Gremlin series were developed to provide improved garden performance in smaller spaces.

Interesting Facts

• China Asters are not true asters but belong to a closely related group of flowering plants.
• The densely packed blooms resemble miniature chrysanthemums.
• Yellow flowers are highly visible to pollinating insects.
• The Gremlin series is known for its compact, uniform growth habit.
• Asters have long been associated with patience, elegance, and lasting affection.
• The blooms make excellent cut flowers with good vase life.

Seedman Notes

Gremlin Yellow Aster brings bright sunshine color to the late-season garden when many summer flowers begin to fade. Its compact habit, abundant blooms, and easy-care nature make it an outstanding choice for flower beds, containers, and cutting gardens. For gardeners seeking dependable color and long-lasting beauty, Gremlin Yellow is a cheerful and rewarding selection.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 10-16 inches
• Spread: 8-12 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Container Friendly: ★★★★★
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★☆
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Production: ★★★★★
• Color Impact: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Duchess Pink Aster is a magnificent giant-flowered China Aster renowned for its enormous, fully double blooms in soft shades of shell pink and rose. The large chrysanthemum-like flowers can reach impressive sizes, creating elegant, florist-quality blossoms that stand proudly atop sturdy stems. Their refined pastel coloring and exceptional flower form make Duchess Pink one of the most admired asters for cutting gardens, exhibition plantings, and cottage-style landscapes.

Throughout late summer and fall, the plants become covered with huge blooms that seem almost too perfect to be grown from seed. The soft pink flowers bring a romantic, old-fashioned charm to the garden while providing outstanding material for bouquets and floral arrangements.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Annual borders
• Wedding flower gardens
• Exhibition plantings
• Mixed flower beds
• Pollinator gardens
• Large bouquet production

Growing Information

Duchess Pink Aster thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 24 to 30 inches tall and develop strong stems capable of supporting their exceptionally large blooms. Good air circulation helps maintain healthy growth and encourages premium flower production.

Flowering begins in midsummer and continues well into fall. The large blooms hold their color beautifully and remain attractive both in the garden and in cut flower arrangements.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 12-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The large nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. As one of the later-blooming annual flowers, asters provide valuable food resources during the latter part of the growing season.

Historical Significance

China Asters were introduced from Asia into European gardens during the 18th century and quickly became some of the most popular annual flowers in cultivation. The Duchess series was developed to emphasize larger flowers, stronger stems, and superior cut-flower quality, making it a favorite among florists and exhibition growers.

Interesting Facts

• The blooms often resemble large chrysanthemums.
• Duchess asters are among the largest-flowered China Asters available.
• Soft pink flowers are traditionally associated with grace, admiration, and affection.
• The blooms can remain attractive in floral arrangements for over a week.
• China Asters have been cultivated for more than 250 years.
• The Duchess series is prized for exhibition-quality flower form.

Seedman Notes

Duchess Pink Aster represents classic garden elegance at its finest. The enormous pastel-pink blooms provide exceptional beauty in flower beds while producing florist-quality stems for cutting. Easy to grow and remarkably rewarding, it is one of the finest choices for gardeners who appreciate large, showy flowers and romantic cottage-garden charm.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-30 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Size: ★★★★★
• Exhibition Value: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Gremlin Lavender Blue Aster is a delightful dwarf China Aster that produces an abundance of fully double blooms in beautiful shades of lavender-blue and soft violet. The densely petaled flowers resemble miniature chrysanthemums, creating rounded blossoms that stand out beautifully against the plant's rich green foliage. Compact, uniform, and exceptionally floriferous, this variety brings cool pastel color and elegant texture to flower beds, borders, containers, and cutting gardens.

The soothing lavender-blue coloration is especially prized because true blue tones are relatively uncommon in annual flowers. Throughout summer and fall, the compact plants become covered with blooms, creating a long-lasting display that adds both color and sophistication to the garden.

Garden Uses

• Flower beds and borders
• Container gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Cut flower gardens
• Patio planters
• Pollinator gardens
• Mass color displays
• Edging plantings

Growing Information

Gremlin Lavender Blue Aster thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 10 to 16 inches tall and develop a compact, branching habit that produces numerous flowering stems. Their uniform growth makes them especially useful for formal plantings and colorful border displays.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. Regular deadheading encourages additional flower production and helps keep plants attractive throughout the season.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 8-12 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. As a late-season bloomer, this variety helps provide valuable nectar sources when many other annual flowers have begun to fade.

Historical Significance

China Asters originated in China and Korea and were introduced into European gardens during the 1700s. Their spectacular blooms quickly made them favorites among gardeners and florists. Compact strains such as the Gremlin series were developed to provide exceptional flower production while maintaining manageable garden size.

Interesting Facts

• Lavender-blue is one of the most sought-after flower colors in ornamental gardening.
• The blooms closely resemble miniature chrysanthemums.
• Asters have long symbolized wisdom, elegance, and patience.
• The Gremlin series is known for its compact habit and uniform flowering.
• The flowers are excellent for bouquets and vase arrangements.
• Cool-toned flowers often create a calming effect in garden designs.

Seedman Notes

Gremlin Lavender Blue Aster offers a beautiful blend of compact growth, abundant flowering, and rare lavender-blue coloration. The soft pastel blooms provide a cooling contrast to brighter garden flowers while delivering months of reliable performance. Whether planted in containers, borders, or cutting gardens, this variety consistently produces impressive displays of elegant blooms.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 10-16 inches
• Spread: 8-12 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Container Friendly: ★★★★★
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Production: ★★★★★
• Color Uniqueness: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Bouquet Dark Blue Aster is a stunning China Aster variety celebrated for its rich violet-blue to deep purple blooms accented by lighter centers and golden-yellow eyes. The fully double flowers create a dazzling display of cool-toned color that stands out beautifully in flower beds, borders, and cutting gardens. The vibrant blooms resemble miniature chrysanthemums and are borne abundantly on well-branched plants, making this variety a favorite among gardeners and florists alike.

The Bouquet series was specifically developed to provide exceptional flower production and excellent cutting quality. Throughout summer and into fall, plants become covered with brilliant blooms that bring elegance and color to the garden while producing armloads of fresh flowers for bouquets and arrangements.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Flower beds and borders
• Cottage gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Mass color displays
• Patio containers
• Bouquet production
• Late-season garden color

Growing Information

Bouquet Dark Blue Aster thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 18 to 24 inches tall and develop a sturdy branching habit that supports numerous large flowers. Their uniform growth and excellent flower production make them ideal for both garden display and cut-flower harvest.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. Regular harvesting of flowers actually encourages additional bloom production, making this variety particularly productive in cutting gardens.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 10-12 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The colorful flowers attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their late-season flowering period makes them especially valuable when many earlier summer flowers have finished blooming.

Historical Significance

China Asters were introduced into European gardens from Asia during the 18th century and rapidly became among the most popular annual flowers grown worldwide. Blue and violet-colored asters have always been particularly prized because true blue flowers remain relatively uncommon in ornamental gardening.

Interesting Facts

• Blue and violet flowers are among the rarest colors found naturally in annual flowers.
• The blooms resemble miniature chrysanthemums.
• The Bouquet series was developed specifically for premium cut flower production.
• Asters have traditionally symbolized wisdom, elegance, and patience.
• The flowers can remain fresh in arrangements for over a week.
• The cool blue tones combine beautifully with white, pink, and yellow flowers.

Seedman Notes

Bouquet Dark Blue Aster offers one of the richest and most striking color displays available among China Asters. The deep violet-blue blooms bring cool elegance to flower beds while producing excellent cut flowers for bouquets and arrangements. Easy to grow, highly productive, and exceptionally beautiful, it remains a favorite for gardeners seeking something truly special.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 18-24 inches
• Spread: 10-12 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Color Uniqueness: ★★★★★
• Flower Production: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Dwarf Queen Mix Aster is a colorful blend of compact China Asters that produces an abundance of large, fully double blooms in a wide range of brilliant shades including pink, rose, lavender, purple, red, white, and soft apricot. The densely petaled flowers resemble miniature chrysanthemums and create an impressive display of color on sturdy, well-branched plants. This outstanding mixture delivers months of vibrant blooms while maintaining a compact habit ideal for borders, containers, and cutting gardens.

Each planting offers a delightful surprise as plants reveal their unique colors throughout the season. The large blooms rise above attractive green foliage and provide continuous beauty from midsummer until frost, creating a dazzling tapestry of color wherever they are grown.

Garden Uses

• Flower beds and borders
• Cut flower gardens
• Container gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Mass color plantings
• Pollinator gardens
• Patio planters
• Bouquet production

Growing Information

Dwarf Queen Mix thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically reach 12 to 18 inches tall and develop a compact, bushy habit that supports numerous large flowers. Their uniform growth and manageable size make them ideal for front-of-border plantings and decorative containers.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. Regular deadheading encourages additional flower production and helps maintain a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 10-12 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The colorful flowers attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their extended bloom season provides an important nectar source during late summer and fall when many earlier flowers have finished blooming.

Historical Significance

China Asters have been cultivated for centuries and were introduced from Asia into European gardens during the 1700s. They quickly became treasured annual flowers because of their impressive blooms and long flowering season. Compact strains such as Dwarf Queen were developed to provide large flowers on plants suitable for smaller gardens and containers.

Interesting Facts

• The blooms often resemble miniature chrysanthemums.
• Each plant may produce a unique flower color within the mixture.
• Dwarf Queen asters are prized for their large flowers relative to plant size.
• The flowers are excellent for fresh bouquets and floral arrangements.
• Asters have traditionally symbolized wisdom, elegance, and patience.
• The compact plants produce impressive numbers of blooms over a long season.

Seedman Notes

Dwarf Queen Mix Aster offers one of the finest combinations of compact growth, large flowers, and vibrant color available among annual flowers. Whether planted in borders, containers, or cutting gardens, this mixture delivers dependable performance and months of spectacular blooms. Its wide color range ensures that every planting becomes a beautiful and unique display.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 12-18 inches
• Spread: 10-12 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Container Friendly: ★★★★★
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Production: ★★★★★
• Color Diversity: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Rainbow Mix Aster is a spectacular blend of China Asters that produces an extraordinary range of brilliant colors, creating a dazzling display that lives up to its name. The large, fully double blooms appear in shades of pink, rose, lavender, purple, blue, scarlet, crimson, white, and soft pastel tones, often producing a complete rainbow of color throughout the planting. The chrysanthemum-like flowers are borne abundantly on sturdy plants, providing months of vibrant beauty in flower beds, borders, and cutting gardens.

Each plant contributes its own unique color to the display, making every planting a delightful surprise. As the season progresses, the garden becomes filled with large, showy blooms that attract pollinators while providing outstanding material for bouquets and floral arrangements.

Garden Uses

• Flower beds and borders
• Cut flower gardens
• Mass color displays
• Cottage gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Containers and patio planters
• Bouquet production
• Late-season color gardens

Growing Information

Rainbow Mix Aster thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 18 to 30 inches tall depending upon growing conditions and develop sturdy stems capable of supporting numerous large blooms. Their upright habit makes them ideal for both garden display and cut flower production.

Flowering begins in midsummer and continues until frost. Regular harvesting or deadheading encourages continuous bloom production and keeps plants attractive throughout the season.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 10-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The colorful blooms attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators throughout late summer and fall. Their extended flowering season provides an important nectar source when many earlier annual flowers have completed their bloom cycle.

Historical Significance

China Asters have been treasured ornamental flowers since their introduction from Asia into Europe during the 1700s. Gardeners quickly embraced their impressive blooms and long flowering season. Rainbow mixtures became particularly popular because they offered the excitement of multiple flower colors from a single packet of seed.

Interesting Facts

• Each planting can produce a unique combination of flower colors.
• The blooms resemble miniature chrysanthemums and florist mums.
• Asters have been grown in ornamental gardens for more than two centuries.
• The flowers are excellent for bouquets and floral arrangements.
• Rainbow Mix often produces nearly every major aster color in a single planting.
• The flowers can remain attractive in a vase for over a week.

Seedman Notes

Rainbow Mix Aster is one of the most colorful and rewarding annual flower mixtures available. The broad range of flower colors ensures continuous visual interest throughout the growing season while providing armloads of cut flowers for indoor enjoyment. Easy to grow and spectacular in bloom, it is an excellent choice for gardeners who appreciate variety, color, and dependable performance.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 18-30 inches
• Spread: 10-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Production: ★★★★★
• Color Diversity: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Andrella Giant Mix Aster is an outstanding blend of giant-flowered China Asters that produces enormous, fully double blooms in a spectacular range of colors. The flowers resemble large chrysanthemums, with densely packed petals forming impressive blooms in shades of pink, rose, lavender, purple, blue, crimson, scarlet, white, and soft pastel tones. The combination of huge flowers, strong stems, and exceptional color diversity makes this one of the finest aster mixtures available for both garden display and cut flower production.

Throughout late summer and into fall, plants become covered with magnificent blooms that create a dazzling show of color. The large flowers stand proudly above the foliage, providing a display that rivals many florist-grown flowers while attracting pollinators and producing armloads of bouquet-quality stems.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Annual flower borders
• Cottage gardens
• Mass color displays
• Pollinator gardens
• Bouquet production
• Exhibition plantings
• Mixed flower beds

Growing Information

Andrella Giant Mix thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically reach 24 to 36 inches in height and develop strong stems capable of supporting their exceptionally large blooms. Good air circulation and regular watering help maintain healthy growth and maximize flower size.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. Harvesting flowers regularly encourages continued bloom production and provides a steady supply of fresh-cut flowers for arrangements.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 12-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The colorful blooms attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their late-season flowering period provides valuable nectar resources when many summer flowers have completed their bloom cycle.

Historical Significance

China Asters have been cultivated since the 18th century and quickly became among the world's most popular annual flowers. Giant-flowered strains such as Andrella were developed to combine exhibition-quality blooms with reliable garden performance, making them favorites among florists, flower farmers, and home gardeners.

Interesting Facts

• The blooms can reach sizes comparable to florist chrysanthemums.
• Each planting produces a unique blend of vibrant colors.
• China Asters originated in Asia and have been cultivated for centuries.
• The flowers are highly valued for bouquets and floral arrangements.
• Large-flowered asters have long been favorites at flower shows and exhibitions.
• The blooms often remain fresh in vases for over a week.

Seedman Notes

Andrella Giant Mix Aster offers everything gardeners love about China Asters: huge blooms, vibrant colors, long-lasting flowers, and dependable performance. Whether grown for cutting, exhibition, or landscape color, this mixture provides an impressive display that continues for months. The giant flowers and broad range of colors make every planting a standout feature in the garden.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-36 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Size: ★★★★★
• Color Diversity: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Tall Needle Unicom Mix Aster is a spectacular blend of giant-flowered China Asters featuring unusual needle-like petals that create dramatic, shaggy blooms unlike any other aster variety. The large flowers appear in a brilliant mixture of colors including white, pink, rose, lavender, purple, scarlet, crimson, and blue shades. Each bloom forms a striking pincushion effect with hundreds of narrow, quilled petals radiating outward, giving the flowers an elegant and exotic appearance.

Growing on tall, sturdy stems, these impressive asters produce florist-quality blooms that command attention in the garden and make exceptional cut flowers. Their unique texture and vibrant colors bring both beauty and sophistication to flower beds, borders, and bouquet arrangements throughout late summer and fall.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Annual flower borders
• Exhibition gardens
• Bouquet production
• Pollinator gardens
• Mass plantings
• Mixed flower beds

Growing Information

Tall Needle Unicom Mix thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 24 to 36 inches tall and develop strong stems capable of supporting their large, heavily petaled blooms. Their upright habit makes them excellent for the middle or back of flower borders.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. The flowers are especially prized for cutting, as their unusual form and excellent vase life make them standouts in floral arrangements.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 12-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The colorful blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their extended flowering season provides valuable nectar resources late in the gardening season when many summer flowers are fading.

Historical Significance

China Asters have been cultivated since the 1700s and have inspired generations of plant breeders. Needle-petal forms such as the Unicom series represent some of the most distinctive breeding achievements, combining unusual flower structure with outstanding garden performance and cutting quality.

Interesting Facts

• The narrow petals create a unique "firework" or "sea urchin" appearance.
• Each bloom can contain hundreds of individual needle-like petals.
• The unusual flower form makes these asters highly prized by florists.
• Needle asters are among the most distinctive members of the China Aster family.
• The blooms often measure 4 to 5 inches across under ideal conditions.
• The flowers provide exceptional texture in mixed bouquets.

Seedman Notes

Tall Needle Unicom Mix Aster offers something truly different for gardeners who appreciate unusual flowers. The spectacular needle-petal blooms create texture and visual interest unlike traditional asters while providing outstanding cut flowers for indoor enjoyment. Easy to grow and remarkably showy, this mixture delivers months of colorful blooms and becomes a conversation piece wherever it is planted.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-36 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Uniqueness: ★★★★★
• Exhibition Value: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Sea Star China Aster is one of the most unique and eye-catching asters available, producing extraordinary blooms with long, twisted, ribbon-like petals that curve and curl outward like colorful sea creatures drifting through ocean currents. The unusual flowers appear in a dazzling range of colors including pink, rose, lavender, purple, blue, crimson, scarlet, and white, creating a spectacular display of texture and movement unlike any traditional aster variety.

The flowers seem almost sculptural in appearance, with their elegantly twisted petals creating a starburst effect that inspired the variety's name. Growing on sturdy stems above attractive green foliage, Sea Star Asters provide months of vibrant color while producing exceptional cut flowers that immediately become conversation pieces in bouquets and floral arrangements.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Exhibition gardens
• Annual flower borders
• Pollinator gardens
• Bouquet production
• Specialty floral arrangements
• Mass color displays

Growing Information

Sea Star China Asters thrive in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 24 to 30 inches tall and develop sturdy stems capable of supporting their unusually large and intricate blooms. Their upright growth habit makes them excellent for cutting gardens and middle-border plantings.

Flowering begins in midsummer and continues until frost. The unusual flowers maintain excellent color and form throughout the blooming season and are especially valued for fresh-cut arrangements.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 12-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The colorful blooms attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their extended bloom season helps provide valuable nectar resources during late summer and early autumn when many other flowers are beginning to fade.

Historical Significance

China Asters have been cultivated for centuries and have inspired countless breeding innovations. The Sea Star type represents one of the most unusual developments in aster breeding, selected specifically for its remarkable twisted petals and highly ornamental flower form that differs dramatically from traditional aster varieties.

Interesting Facts

• The twisted petals resemble tentacles of a colorful sea star or sea anemone.
• No two blooms are exactly alike due to the naturally curled petal structure.
• The flowers provide exceptional texture in bouquets and floral designs.
• Sea Star asters are among the most distinctive China Asters ever developed.
• The unusual blooms often attract attention before gardeners realize they are asters.
• The flowers maintain excellent vase life after cutting.

Seedman Notes

Sea Star China Aster is the perfect choice for gardeners who enjoy unusual flowers that stand apart from the ordinary. The twisted, ribbon-like petals create an exotic appearance unlike virtually any other annual flower. Easy to grow and remarkably productive, this variety delivers months of colorful blooms while providing some of the most distinctive cut flowers available from seed.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-30 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Uniqueness: ★★★★★
• Exhibition Value: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Duchesse Peony Apricot Aster is an exquisite China Aster variety renowned for its enormous peony-style blooms in warm shades of apricot, peach, salmon, and soft golden blush. The fully double flowers are densely packed with broad, gracefully curved petals that create lush, rounded blooms resembling fine peonies. Their rich pastel coloration and impressive flower size make this variety one of the most elegant and sought-after asters for cutting gardens, floral design, and ornamental displays.

The warm apricot tones bring a sophisticated glow to the garden, blending beautifully with cream, pink, lavender, and burgundy flowers. Throughout late summer and fall, the sturdy plants produce a succession of florist-quality blooms that remain attractive both outdoors and in fresh-cut arrangements.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Wedding flower production
• Annual flower borders
• Exhibition gardens
• Bouquet production
• Pollinator gardens
• Mixed flower beds

Growing Information

Duchesse Peony Apricot thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically reach 24 to 30 inches tall and develop strong stems capable of supporting their large, heavy blooms. The upright habit and excellent branching produce numerous flowers over an extended season.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. The flowers maintain their color exceptionally well and are highly valued for both garden display and floral arrangements.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 12-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The large blooms attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their late-season flowering period provides valuable nectar resources when many summer flowers begin to fade.

Historical Significance

The Duchesse series was developed to combine the luxurious appearance of peonies with the ease and reliability of annual China Asters. These large-flowered selections quickly became favorites among florists and gardeners due to their elegant form, rich colors, and exceptional cutting qualities.

Interesting Facts

• The blooms closely resemble miniature peonies.
• Apricot-colored flowers are among the most sought-after shades in modern floral design.
• The flowers often measure 4 to 5 inches across under ideal conditions.
• Duchesse asters are prized for their strong stems and excellent vase life.
• The soft apricot tones pair beautifully with white, lavender, and burgundy flowers.
• The blooms are especially popular in wedding bouquets and specialty floral arrangements.

Seedman Notes

Duchesse Peony Apricot Aster offers a rare combination of elegance, color, and performance. The huge peony-like blooms provide a sophisticated appearance seldom found among annual flowers, while the warm apricot shades bring richness and warmth to the garden. Easy to grow and exceptionally rewarding, this variety produces florist-quality flowers throughout the late-season garden.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-30 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Size: ★★★★★
• Color Sophistication: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Duchesse Peony Coral Rose Aster is a breathtaking China Aster variety that produces enormous peony-style blooms in rich shades of coral pink, salmon rose, and warm sunset tones. The flowers are densely packed with broad, gracefully layered petals that create lush, rounded blooms resembling miniature peonies. Their vibrant coloration and luxurious flower form make this variety one of the most striking selections for cutting gardens, floral arrangements, and ornamental displays.

The glowing coral-rose flowers bring warmth and sophistication to the garden, creating a display that remains vibrant from midsummer until frost. Their rich coloration is especially effective when combined with white, lavender, blue, or apricot flowers, making them highly prized by flower gardeners and professional florists alike.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Wedding flower production
• Annual borders
• Exhibition gardens
• Bouquet production
• Pollinator gardens
• Mixed flower beds

Growing Information

Duchesse Peony Coral Rose thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Plants typically grow 24 to 30 inches tall and develop strong stems capable of supporting their large, heavy blooms. Their upright habit and excellent branching provide numerous florist-quality flowers throughout the growing season.

Blooming begins in midsummer and continues until frost. The blooms maintain excellent color and form, making them equally valuable in the garden and in fresh floral arrangements.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Space plants 12-15 inches apart.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The large nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their extended flowering season provides valuable late-season nectar sources when many earlier flowers have completed their bloom cycle.

Historical Significance

The Duchesse series was developed to capture the luxurious appearance of peonies in an easy-to-grow annual flower. These giant-flowered asters quickly gained popularity among florists and gardeners due to their remarkable bloom size, rich colors, and outstanding cutting qualities.

Interesting Facts

• The blooms closely resemble fully double peonies.
• Coral rose is one of the most desirable colors in modern floral design.
• The flowers often measure 4 to 5 inches across under ideal growing conditions.
• Duchesse asters are prized for their strong stems and excellent vase life.
• The coral-pink tones intensify beautifully in bright sunlight.
• The flowers are especially popular in wedding bouquets and specialty arrangements.

Seedman Notes

Duchesse Peony Coral Rose Aster combines giant peony-like blooms with one of the most beautiful color palettes available in annual flowers. The warm coral-pink shades bring energy and elegance to the garden while producing florist-quality stems for cutting. Easy to grow and exceptionally rewarding, this variety delivers months of spectacular blooms and endless bouquet possibilities.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-30 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Size: ★★★★★
• Color Impact: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

Duchesse Mix Aster is a premium blend of giant-flowered China Asters that produces luxurious, peony-like blooms in a magnificent range of colors. The large flowers include shades of deep purple, lavender, pink, rose, crimson, white, and soft apricot, creating a stunning display of color and elegance in the garden. Every plant is a showstopper, producing abundant blooms on strong stems that are perfect for bouquets and floral arrangements.

This outstanding mixture brings together the best colors in the Duchesse series, known for their enormous, densely petaled flowers and excellent garden performance. Blooming from midsummer until frost, Duchesse Mix provides months of beauty that attracts pollinators and fills the home with fresh-cut flowers.

Garden Uses

• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Annual flower borders
• Exhibition gardens
• Bouquet production
• Pollinator gardens
• Mixed flower beds
• Mass color displays

Growing Information

Plants grow 24 to 30 inches tall with strong, upright stems and excellent branching. Duchesse Mix thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. The plants are vigorous, productive, and bloom reliably from midsummer until frost with proper care.

The large flowers often reach 4 to 5 inches across and maintain excellent color throughout the blooming season. Regular harvesting encourages continued flower production while providing an endless supply of bouquet-quality blooms.

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil—do not bury deeply.
• Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Germination generally occurs within 7-14 days.
• Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
• Provide full sun and good air circulation.
• Water regularly and keep soil evenly moist.
• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flower production.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The large nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Their long blooming season provides important nectar resources late in the growing season when many other flowers are fading.

Historical Significance

The Duchesse series was developed to produce some of the largest and most elegant China Aster flowers available. Named for their noble appearance and luxurious bloom form, these asters quickly became favorites among gardeners and florists throughout Europe and North America.

Interesting Facts

• Duchesse Asters are known for their peony-like blooms that can reach 4-5 inches across.
• Each planting produces a beautiful range of colors.
• The flowers are highly prized by florists for their long vase life.
• China Asters have been cultivated for more than 250 years.
• The large blooms often resemble chrysanthemums and peonies.
• The mixture creates a professional florist-garden appearance from a single packet of seed.

Seedman Notes

Duchesse Mix Aster is one of the finest large-flowered aster blends available. The enormous blooms, vibrant color range, and exceptional cutting quality make it an easy choice for gardeners who love fresh bouquets and dramatic garden displays. Whether planted in rows for cutting or massed in borders, Duchesse Mix provides months of spectacular color and elegant flowers.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Callistephus chinensis
• Height: 24-30 inches
• Spread: 12-15 inches
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun
• Days to Germination: 7-14 Days
• Bloom Season: Mid-Summer through Frost
• Cut Flower Value: ★★★★★
• Bouquet Value: ★★★★★
• Pollinator Friendly: ★★★★☆
• Flower Size: ★★★★★
• Color Diversity: ★★★★★
• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to Grow

A good cutflower with long vase life. Cut when blooms are 2/3 open.