Stokesia is commonly known by name Stokes Aster.
It is an hardy perennial that reaches from 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 feet) in height.
Varieties of Stokesia may have fringed blue, purple, white, or pink flowers. These come into bloom in the summer.
Stokesia laevis - Stokes' aster by TANAKA Juuyoh (田中十洋).
The Stokesia genus consists of just one species: Stokesia laevis.
Stokesia laevis (Stokesia), photograph by Syrio; CC 4.
Stokesia 'Peachie's pick' Cultivar photograph by cultivar413; CC.
Stokesia 'Blue Danube' Cultivar photograph by Jean; CC.
Stokesia 'Mary Gregory' Cultivar photograph by Plantlady; CC 3.0.
The seeds of Stokes Aster (Stokesia plants) can be sown outdoors in either early spring or early autumn.
Seeds should be sown in either a sunny or partially shaded part of the garden and then lightly covered.
Stokesia likes to grow in a rich soil and it is very important that the ground that the plant grows in has very good drainage.
If starting off indoors then start about 10 weeks in advance. Seeds should take about 3 to 4 weeks to germinate at 20 to 22 degrees Celsius (68 to 72°F).
The young Stokesia plants can be put outside either early in autumn or just before the last frost of spring.
Small species of Stokesia should be planted at about 25 cm ( 10 inches) apart, whilst larger varieties should be planted about 45 cm (18 inches) apart.
It is easy to look after the Stokesia plants. Do not let soil become drenched as they do not like wet soil; cut back to ground level at the end of the season in autumn.
If you require more plants then propagate by division in the early months of spring.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Stokesia plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Venidium, Camassia and Felicia plants.