perennialN. America Native

White Stokes' Aster

Stokesia laevis 'Alba'

The Story

Plant Bio

Stokesia laevis 'Alba' is a compact perennial with lance-shaped green foliage and striking, large, white, daisy-like flowers that bloom from summer to early fall, adding a bright touch to borders and rock gardens.

This cultivar is distinguished by its pure white flowers, which provide a clean, elegant appearance and are particularly attractive to pollinators in garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright blue flowers add vibrant color to gardens, attracting pollinators and enhancing landscape aesthetics.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
SpeciesStokesia laevisStokes' aster

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Plant in full sun for best flowering.
  4. Water consistently during first growing season.
  5. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring.
  6. Mulch around base to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry spells 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom 🌱
  • Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture 🌱

Don't

  • Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
  • Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
  • Neglect pruning after flowering ❌
  • Use excessive fertilizer ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pollinator-friendly borderVivid perennial bedWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Stokes' Aster questions

What zones can White Stokes' Aster grow in?

White 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 White Stokes' Aster deer resistant?

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

When does White Stokes' Aster bloom?

White 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 White Stokes' Aster need full sun?

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

Is White Stokes' Aster drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), White 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 White 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.