Callistephus chinensis 'Bonita Scarlet'

The Callistephus chinensis 'Bonita Scarlet' is a beautiful flowering plant commonly known as the China Aster or Aster. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to China. This stunning plant is popular among gardeners for its vibrant red-dark purple-red flowers.

One of the notable features of the 'Bonita Scarlet' variety is its double (pleniflorous) flower type. This means that the flowers are fuller and have more petals than typical asters, giving them a lush and voluminous appearance. The flower diameter ranges from 6 to 6.5 cm, making them relatively large and eye-catching.

The China Aster produces its flowers in an inflorescence called a capitulum or head. These capitula are composed of multiple individual flowers arranged in a dense cluster, creating an impressive display of color when in full bloom. The 'Bonita Scarlet' variety is known for its unicolored flower color distribution, with the petals showcasing shades of red and dark purple-red (046A).

The lanceolate and elongate leaves of the China Aster are another distinguishing characteristic. The leaves are arranged in a spreaded manner and have dentate margins, giving them a serrated appearance. They have a general size of 5-7.5 cm and a dark green color, providing a beautiful backdrop to the vibrant flowers.

The China Aster is a relatively easy-to-grow plant, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry periods, to keep the plant healthy and promote abundant flowering.

In the garden, the 'Bonita Scarlet' China Aster is often used in borders, beds, or containers to add a pop of color and attract butterflies and bees. Its attractive flowers make it a popular choice for floral arrangements and bouquets as well, bringing the beauty of nature indoors.

In conclusion, the Callistephus chinensis 'Bonita Scarlet' is a stunning variety of China Aster known for its double, pleniflorous flowers in shades of red and dark purple-red. With its lanceolate leaves, unicolored flower color distribution, and impressive flower diameter, it is a standout plant that adds beauty to any garden or floral arrangement.

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