Quick answer: Stokes aster (Stokesia laevis) is native to 4 states. What's commonly sold under this name is often a bred variety or the wrong species — see the lookalike alert below. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium-High water, Moist, low drought tolerance |
| Soil | Moist, rich, well-drained soil, acidic sands preferred |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Sep |
| Height | Up to 2 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts butterflies, nectar source |
none noted formally; readily self-sows and colonizes vigorously, may need dividing every 3-4 years
Lookalike alert
Cultivar ('Blue Star') in both.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
