Overview
Stokes' aster is a Florida native herbaceous perennial with evergreen basal rosettes and large fringed lavender-blue flowers.
Mature Size and Habit
Plants usually grow 1 to 1.5 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. Flower stems rise above the low foliage.
Best Landscape Uses
Use it as a small specimen, low mass planting, pollinator border, or on the upper edge of a rain garden.
Sunlight
Full sun or partial sun works well. Strong light supports heavier flowering and a compact habit.
Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation
Plant in sandy or loamy soil with good drainage. Keep soil moderately moist during establishment. It tolerates brief wet and dry periods.
Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida
Fall through early spring is ideal for Tampa and Central Florida. This timing supports roots before summer heat.
Pruning and Maintenance
Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom. Remove old stems and damaged leaves. Divide crowded clumps during cool weather.
Wildlife Value
Flowers attract butterflies, bees, and wasps.
Cold and Heat Sensitivity
Plants tolerate Central Florida heat and normal winter conditions but have low salt tolerance.
Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings
Avoid direct coastal spray, brackish flooding, and poorly drained depressions. No major thorn, toxicity, or root concern is known.
Invasive Concerns
It is native to Florida and is not an invasive concern. Maintain spacing to reduce crown disease in humid sites.
Helpful Resources
Florida Native Plant Society profile and North Carolina Extension profile
Local Delivery
Local delivery only in approved South Tampa ZIP codes. $600.00 minimum plant order. $100.00 flat delivery fee. Ecoscape will contact you to schedule delivery.