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 the UK
- 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
- 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
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.