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Herbaceous Perennial

Stokesia laevis 'Purple Parasols'
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Stokes' aster 'Purple Parasols'

'Purple Parasols' is a compact herbaceous perennial, up to 45cm high, with evergreen rosettes of slender green leaves and large deep violet cornflower-like flowers with paler centres from midsummer to early autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Purple Green Grey Silver
Autumn Purple Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Stokesia are perennials producing evergreen, basal rosettes. The colourful, cornflower-like flowers are long lasting and good for cutting

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in light, well-drained soil in sun or light shade; does best in acidic soil

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or root cuttings in late winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required, but plants can be cut down to ground level in autumn or winter

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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