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Herbaceous Perennial

Stokesia laevis Blue Frills ('Synstokhar')
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Stokes' aster [Blue Frills]

An evergreen perennial, with leathery softly spined dark green leaves. Flowers are a deep dark blue and appear during the summer and autumn

Synonyms
Stokesia laevis 'Synstokhar'
Stokesia laevis 'Blue Frills'
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer Blue Green
Autumn Blue Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
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

Trade

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in light well drained soil in sunor light shade does best in acidic soil.

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or root cuttings in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • 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

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