Callistephus chinensis (Aster) Serenade Blue – Blue cluster aster with rich flowering

Callistephus chinensis (Aster) Serenade Blue is a versatile and early-flowering aster, beloved for its clustered blooms and vibrant blue color. This variety produces numerous semi-double flowers with a yellow center on each stem, creating a spectacular mass of blooms that is a real eye-catcher in both the garden and bouquets.

With a flower diameter of approximately 3 cm and compact, abundant growth, Serenade Blue is particularly well-suited for cut flower production, borders, and potting. This variety combines aesthetics with reliability, provided proper cultivation practices are followed.

Rich cluster blooms and vibrant colour

Each stem of the Serenade Blue bears a cluster of flowers, creating a spectacular, densely packed bloom. The semi-double flowers are about 3 cm in diameter and have a striking yellow center, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue petals.

The compact clusters make this aster ideal for bouquets and flower arrangements, as multiple blooms per stem create a full and professional look. In a border or pot, Serenade Blue provides an intense pop of color, ideal for summer and early autumn borders.

Production cycle and cultivation time

The production cycle of Serenade Blue is approximately 14 weeks from sowing in spring. For commercial cultivation, this period can be adjusted by using day length manipulation, allowing flower production to be accelerated or synchronized for specific harvest times.

This reliable growth cycle makes the Serenade Blue very suitable for professional cut flower cultivation, because planning and harvesting are predictable.

Fusarium tolerance and cultivation advice

Asters, including the Serenade series, are susceptible to Fusarium wilt, a fungus that can cause root and stem wilt. To maintain healthy and productive plants, it's important to:

• Change location annually or disinfect the soil.

• Avoid overwatering and ensure well-draining soil.

• Promote cultivation in a sunny and well ventilated area.

These simple precautions will allow the Serenade Blue to flower profusely and make the most of its full growth cycle.

Cultivation information

• Sowing period: February – April (indoors or under glass)

• Plant out: after the last frost, end of April – beginning of May

• Planting distance: 25 × 25 cm for compact growth

• Flower diameter: ±3 cm

• Height: 40–50 cm

• Flowering time: approximately 14 weeks from sowing, depending on growing conditions

Growing tip: Prune young plants to make the clusters more compact and increase flower production. Regularly removing spent flowers extends the flowering period and promotes healthy plants.

Ideal for garden, pot and bouquet

The Serenade Blue is perfect for summer flower gardens, potted plants, and cut flowers. Its compact clusters and abundant blooms make this aster suitable for:

• Bee and butterfly gardens thanks to the abundance of nectar and pollen.

• Romantic field bouquets and flower arrangements thanks to the dense clusters per stem.

• Borders and pots where colour and structure are desired.

The combination of vibrant blue color, compact clusters, and reliable flowering makes Serenade Blue an asset to both professional growers and home gardeners.

Discover the complete Callistephus range at Easyseed

Easyseed offers a wide range of Callistephus chinensis varieties, from the Matsumoto line to the Serenade series. Each variety guarantees high-quality seeds, reliable germination, and abundant flowering, so gardeners and florists can always choose quality and beauty for their own garden or cultivation.