Colorwheel Stokes' Aster

Colorwheel Stokes' Aster (Stokesia laevis 'Colorwheel')

Colorwheel Stokes' Aster (Stokesia laevis 'Colorwheel') is a unique, long-blooming perennial known for its stunning color-changing flowers that transition from white to lavender to purple as they age. This ever-changing floral display creates a multicolored effect on a single plant, making it a standout in borders, pollinator gardens, and mixed perennial plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Colorwheel' produces large, daisy-like flowers that open pure white before gradually shifting through shades of lavender and purple over time. Blooming from early to late summer, this selection attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Its deep green, lance-shaped foliage forms a compact, bushy clump, reaching 12 to 18 inches in height with a similar spread. This drought-tolerant perennial is ideal for adding dynamic color to sunny garden beds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light partial shade.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates sandy or loamy soils.
• Water: Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
• Humidity: Adaptable to humid conditions with good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9, making it well-suited for a wide range of climates.

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: A valuable nectar source for butterflies and bees.
• Perennial Borders: Adds season-long interest with color-changing blooms.
• Rock Gardens: Thrives in well-drained, sandy soils.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a striking multicolored display when planted in groups.
• Cut Flower Gardens: Long-lasting blooms are excellent for arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Colorwheel Stokes' Aster is a resilient, easy-care perennial that requires minimal upkeep once established.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment; tolerates dry conditions once mature.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
• 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 Colorwheel Stokes' Aster?

Colorwheel Stokes' Aster offers a dynamic floral display with changing colors, making it a visually captivating addition to any landscape.

• Color-Changing Blooms: Transitions from white to lavender to purple.
• Compact, Bushy Habit: Neat and well-behaved in garden beds.
• Attracts Pollinators: A favorite of bees and butterflies.
• Drought-Tolerant and Hardy: Thrives in dry conditions with minimal care.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little attention once established.

For a long-blooming perennial that provides an ever-changing display of color, Colorwheel Stokes' Aster (Stokesia laevis 'Colorwheel') is an exceptional choice.