Aster Stokes

Stokesia laevis

Characteristics

Culture

Stokes Aster is a herbaceous perennial that may grow 1 to 2 feet tall. The leaves are basal except for smaller clasping leaves that occur on new sprouts. Deep violet or lavender blue flowers appear in early summer. Stokesia performs great in full sun to part sun, where they prefer an acidic, well-drained soil. Stokes aster lives in boggy areas in its native environment but performs well in the garden in both moist and moderately dry beds. Propagate by seed or division.

Noteworthy Characteristics

A North American wildflower, Stokesia is native to the Southeastern US (North Carolina to Louisiana). It has been a garden favorite for many years because of its beautiful flowers and ease of culture. In the wild, stokesia is usually blue, lilac or white, but new cultivated varieties of Stokesia laevis are yellow and magenta. 

Problems

Watch for caterpillars. Occasionally damaged by deer.

Garden Uses

Blooming from midsummer to early fall (if deadheaded), Stokesia is a tremendous accent to yellow, pink, or white mums and other late bloomers. Great for border fronts or cottage gardens. Works well in moist areas along ponds, streams, or water gardens. Good for cut flowers.