Product description
Stokesia laevis 'Amethyst', commonly known as Stokes' Aster, is an evergreen perennial admired for its vibrant, cornflower-like, violet-purple blooms that appear from July to September. The plant forms a neat basal rosette of mid-green, lance-shaped leaves, providing a lush backdrop to the striking flowers. With a compact growth habit, it reaches approximately 40–50 cm in height and spreads about 45 cm, making it an excellent choice for borders, beds, and containers.
Thriving in well-drained, fertile soil under full sun, Stokesia laevis 'Amethyst' is well-suited for UK gardens. Its drought-tolerant nature, once established, makes it a resilient addition to various garden settings, including cottage gardens and wildlife-friendly areas. Regular deadheading of spent flowers will encourage continuous blooming throughout the summer months.
Ideal for gardeners seeking long-lasting summer colour, this perennial not only enhances garden aesthetics but also attracts pollinators, supporting local biodiversity. Its vibrant flowers are excellent for cutting, allowing you to enjoy their beauty indoors as well.
Please Note: Images are for illustrative purposes only and designed to be a representation of the item(s) being sold. Depending on seasonality, deciduous plants may be supplied in their dormant state and without leaves. Plants may also be pruned back, lower than stated heights, to encourage new growth.
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers and prolong blooming. Trim back spent stems in late autumn or early spring to promote fresh growth.
How to Water
Water Stokesia regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist. Once established, they are somewhat drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering. Avoid soggy soil to prevent root rot.
How to Plant
Plant Stokesia in well-draining soil with full sun or partial shade. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant, and backfill with soil. Space plants 30-45cm apart. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.