Peachie’s Pick Stokes’ Aster (Stokesia laevis ‘Peachie’s Pick’)
Peachie�s Pick Stokes’ Aster (Stokesia laevis ‘Peachie’s Pick’) is a compact, long-blooming perennial prized for its large, lavender-blue flowers and its exceptional heat and humidity tolerance. Selected for its superior garden performance, this variety boasts a neat, clump-forming habit and an extended bloom period, making it a standout in borders, pollinator gardens, and mixed perennial plantings.
Distinctive Features
‘Peachie�s Pick’ produces abundant, frilly, lavender-blue flowers that measure up to 4 inches across. Blooming from early summer into fall, this selection offers a longer flowering period than other Stokes� Aster varieties. Its sturdy, upright stems keep the blooms from flopping, while its deep green, lance-shaped foliage remains attractive throughout the season. Growing 12 to 18 inches tall with a similar spread, it maintains a tidy and well-behaved presence in the garden.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to light partial shade.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil.
- Water: Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
- Humidity: Highly tolerant of heat and humidity.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9, making it widely adaptable.
Ideal Uses
- Pollinator Gardens: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.
- Perennial Borders: Provides vibrant, long-lasting color.
- Rock Gardens: Thrives in well-drained, sandy soils.
- Mass Plantings: Creates a striking display when grouped together.
- Cut Flower Gardens: Long-lasting blooms make excellent cut flowers.
Low Maintenance Care
Peachie�s Pick Stokes’ Aster is a resilient, easy-care perennial that thrives with minimal upkeep.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment; tolerates drought once mature.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.
- Fertilizing: Benefits from a light feeding in early spring.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant; generally pest-free.
- Winter Care: Cut back dead foliage in late fall or early spring.
Why Choose Peachie’s Pick Stokes’ Aster?
Peachie�s Pick Stokes’ Aster offers an extended bloom time, sturdy growth, and vibrant lavender-blue flowers, making it a top choice for low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly gardens.
- Extended Blooming Period: Longer flowering season than most Stokes� Asters.
- Neat, Clump-Forming Growth: Maintains a tidy and structured presence.
- Attracts Pollinators: Supports bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
- Drought-Tolerant and Hardy: Thrives in dry soils with minimal care.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little attention once established.
For a reliable, long-blooming perennial that brings pollinators and stunning color to the landscape, Peachie�s Pick Stokes’ Aster (Stokesia laevis ‘Peachie’s Pick’) is an outstanding choice.