Callistephus

Family. Asteraceae. 

Origin. China.

Description. Callistephus is an annual herbaceous plant similar to an aster. Monotypic genus. Stems are erect, often unbranched. The leaves are alternate or opposite, ovate, with small teeth along the edge of the leaf blade, 5 - 8 cm long. The inflorescences, which we mistake for flowers, appear at the top of the stems, up to 12 cm in diameter, with many brightly colored, small, tubular flowers red, pink, blue, purple, yellow and white. Such inflorescences are the main distinguishing feature of the Asteraceae family. Two-color varieties are available. The center of the inflorescences is often yellow.

Aster came to Europe for the first time in 1728 - its seeds were brought by botanist Antoine Jussier from China. In 1826, the genus Callistephus was separated from the genus of asters, into which annual plants were isolated.

Height. Up to 75 cm.

Temperature of the flower content

The plant is cold-resistant; moderately warm conditions at a temperature of 16 - 22° C are best. Callistephus tolerates short frosts. 

Reproduction

The seeds are sown in the spring. The pots with seedlings are placed in a warm place with a temperature of 18 - 21 °C. Young specimens are watered only from below so that their root system develops faster in search of water. Germination occurs within 1 - 2 weeks. The first picking is carried out when the young plants have 2 - 3 true leaves.

Lighting

Loves well-lit places with direct sunlight in the morning and evening. On hot summer days, slight shading is necessary.

Flowering time

From July to September.

How to care

A very unpretentious plant that does not require much time and effort. Tall varieties with long stems should be provided with support. Young bushes are pinched to stimulate branching, then callistephus forms a larger number of buds.

Substrate

Grows in nutrient-rich soils with good drainage. Soil with a pH between 5.5 - 7 is suitable. 

Feeding

Plants should be fertilized every 14 days throughout the growing season. 

Purpose

Callistephus flowers can be used as cut flowers - they retain their attractive appearance for a long time in water.

Air humidity

Plants appreciate good air movement - place them in a ventilated area. The leaves are periodically sprayed or a room humidifier is used. 

Soil moisture

Water in spring and summer until the earthen ball is completely soaked, but allow the top layer of soil 3-6 cm thick to dry before the next watering. When the weather becomes rainy in the fall, watering is reduced.

Transfer

Usually not required, the plant is grown as an annual.

Pests and diseases

The bushes are susceptible to viral diseases. With excess moisture, the stems and root system rot.

Harmful insects can include aphids, spider mites and whiteflies. If you grow the flower in open ground, it can be attacked by slugs and snails, as well as bugs.