Stokes’ Aster

Stokesia laevis

STOKES-ee-ah LAY-vis

Asteraceae

Native: Yes.

Florida abundance and distribution: Wet Pine Flatwoods, savannahs, disturbed areas of Northern Florida, Zones 5 to 10.

Recognition: Plants with stalked, basal leaves, in spring sprouting many erect stems with small clasping leaves between 1 to 2 feet tall.  Flower heads (1-4) are shaggy cornflower-like 3 to 4 inches across.  Ray florets fringed in concentric rows—blue, lavender, pink or white.  Central disc florets darker shades of same colors.

Other: Stokesia has only one species—named after Jonathan Stokes—who was a friend of Linnaeus’ son.

Contributed by: Carolyn Hendry