Stokesia laevis
Stokes' aster
A perennial with basal, lance-shaped leaves up to 20cm long forming an evergreen rosette. Upright stems to around 50cm tall with shorter, stem-clasping leaves bear cornflower-like purple-blue flowerheads in summer and early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Purple Blue | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Stokesia are perennials producing evergreen, basal rosettes. The colourful, cornflower-like flowers are long lasting and good for cutting
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SE US
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a sunny, sheltered position in a fertile, well-drained soil; liable to rot in wet winter soils
Propagation
Propagate by seed, by division in spring or root cuttings in late winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering. Tidy foliage in spring when new growth appears
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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