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Herbaceous Perennial

Stokesia laevis 'Mel's'PBR
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Stokes' aster 'Mel's'

An upright, clump-forming semi-evergreen perennial with leathery, soft spiney dark green leaves. Large fringed violet-blue flowers are produced in the summer

Synonyms
Stokesia laevis Mel's Blue
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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
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Blue Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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

Grow in fertile, moist but well drained soil in full sun.

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or take root cuttings during late winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Cut back in spring when fresh foliage appears. Dead head regulary to prolong flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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