Stokesia

Stokesia laevis, the Stoke's aster, is a reliable and long-blooming native perennial that thrives in the well-drained, sandy soils and full-sun exposures of Martha's Vineyard's coastal garden borders from Edgartown to Gay Head. Its large, lavender-blue to white flowers from late June through September provide months of cutting garden interest and serve as an important late-season nectar source for native bees and migrating butterflies active on the island through fall. The plant is notably tolerant of the island's lean, acidic sandy soils and handles the intermittent drought periods of the Vineyard's summer with good composure once established.

Deer resistance is reliable, making it suitable for open garden settings without supplemental protection. Estate Care professionals feature Stokesia in sunny perennial border programs and cutting garden designs where long-season bloom, native character, and adaptability to coastal conditions are all design priorities.