China Aster Gala Blue | Callistephus chinensis

China Aster Gala Blue | Callistephus chinensis

Callistephus chinensis ‘Gala Blue’ is a striking annual aster variety celebrated for its large, double blooms in a deep, vivid blue shade. Its perfectly rounded, pincushion-like flowers measure up to 10 cm  across and are carried on strong, upright stems, making them ideal for cutting, garden beds, and containers.

Part of the Gala series, this aster is known for its uniform growth, exceptional color clarity, and long vase life. With sturdy 80 cm stems and rich, velvety petals, Gala Blue brings elegance and depth to borders and floral arrangements throughout summer and early autumn.

Plant Details

• Botanical name: Callistephus chinensis
• Variety: Gala Blue
• Common name: China Aster
• Type: Annual
• Height: 75–80 cm
• Flower size: 8–10 cm 
  
• Bloom type: Fully double, pincushion form
• Position: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Fertile, well-drained, moderately moist
• Days to maturity: 14–15 weeks from sowing
• Flowering period: July–September
• Uses: Cut flowers, garden borders, containers

How to Sow & Grow

• When to Sow:
  • Indoors: February–April
  • Outdoors: After the last frost (May–June)
• Sowing Instructions:
  • Sow seeds thinly in trays or pots with seed compost.
  • Cover lightly (3 mm deep) and keep moist at 18–20°C.
  • Germination: 7–14 days.
  • Transplant seedlings into 9 cm pots when they have 2–3 true leaves.
  • Harden off and plant outdoors 25–30 cm apart once frost danger has passed.
• Care Tips:
  • Prefers full sun and rich, well-drained soil.
  • Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
  • Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during growth.
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
  • Rotate growing sites annually to prevent Fusarium wilt.

Why Grow ‘Gala Blue’?

✔ Striking, large blue blooms up to 10 cm wide
✔ Excellent vase life – perfect for cut flowers
✔ Sturdy, upright stems ideal for borders and bouquets
✔ Easy to grow and highly decorative