China Aster Seeds (Callistephus chinensis)

Harvested from the gardens at Monticello.
China Aster seeds were first sent to Paris from China in 1728 by a Jesuit priest. This showy annual flower was cultivated in America as early as 1737 by Williamsburg's John Custis and it grew in popularity in European gardens through the 18th century. By 1804 Bernard McMahon of Philadelphia was selling eleven cultivars of Aster chinensis in a variety of "sorts" including double and quilled forms. These seeds represent a simple, single-flowered form of China Aster in shades of blue and pink with yellow centers that are good for cutting.

Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date at 70 degrees F. Transplant to 6-packs or small pots once they have several true leaves, then harden off and plant outdoors after the last frost. Approximately 45-50 seeds per packet.