China Aster

China Aster (Callistephus chinensis), an annual composite plant, a native of China, with an erect branched stem, scattered, sessile, toothed leaves, and large showy terminal heads of strap-shaped or tubular florets, white, pink or violet in colour. Each head has several rows of spreading leafy bracts with lobed margins and a slightly convex receptacle. Being hardy, free-flowering, and showy, the plant has become a favourite with gardeners.