Stoke's Aster (Stokesia laevis)Stoke's Aster (Stokesia laevis) is a perennial that can grow approximately 1 to 1. 5 feet with a spread of 6 inches to one foot. This is a very showy, periwinkle purple flowers that blooms regularly from May to September and potentially year round, if planted in full sun but it will also tolerate part shade and bloom less often. It prefers moist, well drained sandy soil. It occurs naturally in savannas, flatwoods, and roadside depressions. AC

Plant it in the back of your garden and be prepared to let it go to seed — the seeds attract small birds which snack on them

this plant earned its name "stopper" for its medicinal use in treating diarrhea

In my garden it has been blooming most of the year but a larger flush of blooms and berries between mid-October through December

so plant it away from livestock

ornamental touch to gardens while supporting pollinators and local ecosystems

periwinkle purple flowers that blooms regularly from May to September and potentially year-round

Moderate to fast growing

unripe peppers

making it a practical and rewarding addition to gardens that prioritize both beauty and biodiversity

and environmental benefits

Cape Forget-Me-Not

Plastic spring latch keeps it secure without assembly