Although there is just 1 species in this daisy family (Asteraceae) genus, it has been extensively developed in cultivation and is now available in a wide range of plant sizes, flower colors, and forms. A summer- to autumn-flowering perennial from the south-eastern U.S.A., Stokesia-or Stokes' aster-was named for Dr.Jonathan Stokes (1755-1831), English doctor and botanist. It arrived in England in 1766 and was in vogue in Victorian times, especially as a cut flower. It later languished but is now popular again. Stokesia is an upright plant with simple ever-green leaves borne in basal rosettes and large cornflowerlike heads of white, yellow, or mauve to deep purple-blue flowers. Stokesia plants are well suited to herbaceous borders.
CULTIVATION
Plant in full or half sun in light free-draining soil. Water and feed well. Watch for mildew in late summer. Propagate by division near the end of the dormant period, or raise from seed.
Top Tip
To prolong the Stokesia flowering season, remove the spent flower stems immediately. This cornflower look-alike is ideal for cutting and drying.
CULTIVATION
Plant in full or half sun in light free-draining soil. Water and feed well. Watch for mildew in late summer. Propagate by division near the end of the dormant period, or raise from seed.
Top Tip
To prolong the Stokesia flowering season, remove the spent flower stems immediately. This cornflower look-alike is ideal for cutting and drying.
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