500+Powder Puff China Aster Seeds Rainbow Chrysanthemum Mix Cut flowers USA This fall-blooming beauty, though a member of the Aster family, more closely resembles the chrysanthemum; its unique characteristics have made it the only member of the Callistephus genus. As the name suggests, it originates in China. China Asters are widely grown throughout many countries for commercial use in the cut flower industry. The common name of "aster" comes from the ancient Greek, meaning "star" in reference to the flower's brightness and shape. Direct sow in early spring, planting 1/4" below the surface of the soil. For continuous blooming into late fall, plant a new crop every two weeks. To start indoors, sow the seed in a flat or peat pots 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost; keep the soil lightly moist and the temperature around 65-70 degrees F until germination, which should occur within 7-10 days. Transplant the seedlings as soon as they can safely be handled and there is no chance of frost.