An Aster Is An Aster Is An Aster...Maybe

Here are some asters that look more like the popular varieties in the 19th century.  The needle aster to the left is from Seed Empire in Washington State.

I finally found my way to these larger asters by following the label on Mrs. Loudon's color plate posted yesterday. The China Aster is still very popular but it is a plant that needs the right conditions and care.  Traditionally prone to fail from fusarium wilt, it needs a good gardener to keep it happy.

The China Aster, Callistephus chinensis, is the only member of the genus Callistephus in the aster family, Asteraceae.  

An aster is whatever looks like an aster...to some degree.  Back before DNA testing that worked.  Check out Wikipedia for the up to date  family reassignments.

     

 

 

Interesting how there are old companies we are not aware of as they deal only with retailers. Sakata, during WWII, sent their seed stock to Canadian business partners for protection.  Their asters are to the right. >

"A Note from Sakata's President and CEO, Dave Armstrong

A century in business matters. Sakata has survived world wars, economic crises and natural disasters to continuously create new standards in global vegetable and ornamental markets. In a marketplace characterized by consolidation, Sakata stands as a symbol of independence, intensive innovation and reliability. 

A century of business matters to Sakata staff, who have shown their commitment through decades of dedication. It matters to our customers, who have become partners, supporting Sakata genetics over these many years, while realizing value in their businesses from our innovation. 

On this momentous occasion, we express our deep appreciation to all of Sakata’s stakeholders. "
 http://www.sakataornamentals.com/plantname/Callistephus-Bonita
http://www.sakataornamentals.com/plantname/Callistephus-Matsumoto
http://www.sakataornamentals.com/plantname/Callistephus-Serenade

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I don't know where this next store is, although I am thinking Australia...nice site and fun to read!

Aster. Ostrich Plume.

Higgledy Garden » The Higgledy Garden Seed Shop. » All seeds » Aster. Ostrich Plume.

This a super cool 'feathery' Aster, really unusual and very striking... this will have your neighbours in a jealous rage. It has large flower heads on branching stems, good in the garden, great in the vase.

Also this baby is an early flowerer... what more could you wish for?

Note, these are VERY Barbara Cartland...if you don't like lots of flounce...these may not be the flowers for you.