Perennial
Stokes Aster
Stokesia laevis
Varieties We Carry
StandardStokesia laevisPurpleStokesia laevis
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$7.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size1-2 feet × 1-2 feet
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 $7.95.
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
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
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
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.
Soil & Fertilizer
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.
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Basswood
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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.