Species Stokes' aster

Stokes' aster

Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube'

Stokes' aster (Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube') is a perennial, clump-forming plant with lush, blue-green foliage and eye-catching blue flowers. It grows best in full sun and produces numerous flowers from late spring to early summer. Its flowers are held in deep blue mounds, and the foliage takes on a silvery tinge in the heat of summer. Stokes' aster is an excellent choice for border or foundation plantings in a sunny garden. They are also great for cut flowers, providing long-lasting color indoors. With its compact form, bright blooms, and evergreen leaves, Stokes' aster is an outstanding selection for any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Blue Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade, Sheltered

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

blue Fruits In Autumn Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

purple

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Stokes' aster (Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube') prefers well-draining soil and regular watering. Water the plant weekly, providing enough water to moisten the soil but making sure the soil is not overly saturated. During the summer months, water the plant twice a week if the weather is especially hot and dry. During the winter months, cut back watering to once a month, giving just enough moisture to prevent the plant from drying out.

sunlight

Stokes' aster (Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube') is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in full-sun conditions. It needs at least 8-10 hours of direct sun each day for best growth. Morning sun is ideal as it helps to dry off the foliage quickly from dew or overnight moisture, preventing disease. Conversely, during the hottest afternoon periods, the plant can benefit from some shade.

pruning

Stokes' aster should be pruned in late winter or early spring just before its new growth begins. Pruning Stokes' aster encourages new growth and flowering. To encourage a bushy and blooming plant, cut back the stems of Stokes' aster close to the crown of the plant. Remove any dead or diseased stems. Pruning will help it remain a neat and attractive plant. If the stems of Stokes' aster are overly tall, prune them back to 1/3 of the stem length. This will encourage bushiness and allow more space for blooms. Be sure to wear gloves and protective eyewear when pruning Stokes' aster.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Stokesia laevis 'Blue Danube' is usually in July or August.

Hardiness Map