Callistephus - featuring Floristry Tips from Su Whale
- Su Whale
- Nov 8
- 2 min read
Also known as the China or Matsumoto Aster, this member of the Aster family has strong associations with autumn, despite being available from the Dutch auctions for most of the year. Pronounced ‘kal-lee-STEPH-us’ it is a cheerful, multi-petalled flower with a bright yellow central disc and can be bought in either single or double forms.
Colour Range: White, lilac, pale pink, dark pink, red, purple.
Vase life: 7-10 days. Peaks March – December, seasonally available August – October.
Stem length: Short to medium (40-70cm) Sold in multiplies of 50 stems.
Ideal Temperature Range: 2-10°C.
Floristry Tips from Su Whale
Remove all foliage below the water line, make sure the vase is clean and add flower food. China Asters are known water polluters, so good hygiene is important.
Change water every other day, cutting a little of the bottom of the stem each time.
Make sure they have good air circulation and don’t overcrowd vases or containers.
The double varieties can become top heavy as they mature, so handle carefully.
Keep flowers away from direct heat sources or sunlight, as warm conditions will hasten their maturity.
How to use Callistephus in designs
Although Callistephus are a pretty flower, they are not bold or strong enough to be used as a focal. Add them to brighten up a seasonal hand-tied bouquet or they would look equally lovely in mixed vases for wedding or event table decorations. Stems can be fragile, some will be stronger than others, so careful selection is needed when using in floral foam.
Images Envato Elements
Su Whale is a florist and freelance writer with over Thirty years' experience in the floristry industry. She is the author and publisher of three best-selling books: Cut Flowers, 4th edition (2020) Cut Foliage, 2nd Edition, (2021) and Houseplants (2019), all bookshelf essentials for the professional florist.
