Evaluation of China Aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees] F1 hybrids and their parents for qualitative and quantitative traits

China aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees] belongs to the family Asteraceae and is native of Northern China. It is grown commercially as cut flower for flower arrangement, interior decoration and loose flower for garland making and worshipping. A total of 30 China aster F1 hybrids developed through line x tester mating design involving 6 female and 5 male parents, were evaluated for qualitative and quantitative characters during 2016- 17. All the hybrids showed semi-double type of flower heads. Both spreading and semierect plant types were found to be dominant over erect type.