Aster 'Matsumoto Apricot'

Matsumoto Apricot (Callistephus chinensis)

Soft apricot petals enfold golden hearts—Matsumoto Apricot brings a gentle, warm glow to the cutting garden. Its daisy-like blooms, 1½–2 in across, form on branching sprays, lending the plant both fullness and lightness. Upright stems rise to 24–30 in, carrying a palette that feels like dawn distilled into petals.

With a gracious presence in the vase, this aster bridges the gap between classic charm and soft modern palettes. Pair it with creamy calendulas for a sunlit harmony, or nestle it among lavender scabiosa to let its apricot tones breathe. In mixed bouquets, let it serve as the warm “peace note” amid cooler blues and whites.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/8"

GERMINATION: 10-14 days at 21-22°C

HEIGHT: 32 - 36

MATURITY: 110-120 Days

SPACING: 9-12”

PINCH: Not Necessary

HOW TO GROW:
Transplanting (recommended): Start seeds indoors in trays 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Do not bury seeds deeply; lightly cover with soil or vermiculite, as light aids germination. To avoid displacing the seeds, mist or bottom water gently. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors once soil temperatures consistently reach 18–$21°C$. Thin seedlings to a final spacing of 6–12 inches apart, depending on the variety.

Pinching and Support: Pinching isn't strictly necessary for asters, it is a tool you can use to encourage branching and a more abundant harvest of blooms Provide support with stakes, a trellis, or netting, especially for taller varieties.

Soil Preference and Watering: China aster prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and establishment. Once mature, water regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to disease.

Fertilizing: China aster is a heavy feeder. Amend the soil with compost before planting. For optimal growth and blooms, fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers are about three-quarters of the way open. Cut in the early morning or late evening and immediately place in a vase of water.