Stokesia laevis 'Purple Parasols'
perennial

'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster

Stokesia laevis 'Purple Parasols'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant 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 'Purple Parasols' is a low-growing perennial with stiff, strap-like leaves and striking, large, purple-blue flowers that resemble umbrellas, blooming from summer to fall. This cultivar is renowned for its vibrant purple flowers with a distinctive umbrella-like shape, providing striking color and texture to borders and rock gardens.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright purple flowers add vivid color to garden beds and borders.
Practical UsesLow-maintenance and drought-tolerant, ideal for sustainable landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in spring.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
  3. Place in full sun for best flowering.
  4. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart after emergence.
  5. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
  • Divide clumps every 3-4 years for best growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don't plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
  • Never ignore pest signs

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant perennial borderPollinator-friendly gardenColorful rock garden accent

Companion Plants

Coreopsis Echinacea Salvia Lavender Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster questions

What zones can 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster grow in?

'Purple Parasols' 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 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster deer resistant?

Yes — 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster bloom?

'Purple Parasols' 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 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster need full sun?

'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), 'Purple Parasols' Stokes' Aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow 'Purple Parasols' 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play