Stokes Aster
Stokesia laevis
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Stokes Aster
Stokes Aster (Stokesia laevis) is the only species in its genus, a native perennial from the southeastern United States bearing large, fringed, cornflower-like blooms in lavender-blue, white, or pink. Its bold flowers and evergreen basal rosette make it a standout in native and cottage-style gardens. Starting at $9.94.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White, Purple, Blue
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Stokes aster performs best in full sun to partial shade in NE Florida; afternoon shade can help extend bloom in hot summers. At least 6 hours of direct sun produces the most prolific flowering.
Water moderately and consistently — Stokes aster tolerates brief wet periods but must have well-drained soil to avoid crown rot in Florida's rainy summers. Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant; reduce irrigation in fall and winter.
Plant in well-drained, acidic, sandy or loamy soil. Incorporate a slow-release balanced fertilizer at planting and top-dress lightly in early spring; avoid excess nitrogen, which reduces flowering. Divide clumps every 2–3 years to maintain vigor.
Similar needs
Atamasco Lily
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Common Blue Violet
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Foxglove
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Tropical Sage
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Vanilla Leaf
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Basswood
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Stokes Aster a good plant for St. Augustine?
Stokes Aster is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-2 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.