Stokes' aster
Stokesia laevis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeastern United States
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Stokesia laevis, commonly known as Stokes' Aster, is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring clumping growth with dark green, lance-shaped leaves and vibrant, daisy-like flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white during the summer and fall. This species is appreciated for its long-lasting, showy flowers that attract pollinators and its ability to thrive in well-drained, rocky soils with full sun exposure.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
- Place in full sun for optimal blooming.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Pro Tip
Allow soil to drain well to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead to encourage more blooms
- Divide every few years for renewal
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Allow soil to become waterlogged
- Use heavy fertilizers that can cause leggy growth
- Neglect deadheading and pruning
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Stokes' aster questions
What zones can Stokes' aster grow in?
Stokes' aster is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Stokes' aster deer resistant?
Yes — Stokes' aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Stokes' aster bloom?
Stokes' aster typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Stokes' aster need full sun?
Stokes' aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Stokes' aster drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Stokes' aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Stokesia to compare
Honeysong Purple Stoke's Aster
Stokesia laevis 'Honeysong Purple'
Peachie's Pick Stokes' Aster
Stokesia laevis 'Peachies Pick'
'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster
Stokesia laevis 'Purple Parasols'
Stokes' Aster
Stokesia laevis 'Mary Gregory'
Omega Skyrocket Stokes' Aster
Stokesia laevis 'Omega Skyrocket'
White Stokes' Aster
Stokesia laevis 'Alba'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Stokes' aster with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
