If you’re new to gardening and looking for a plant that’s easy to grow, beautiful to behold, and forgiving for beginners, let me introduce you to two exciting newcomers in the gardening world: Stokesia laevis 'Whitecaps' and Stokesia laevis 'Riptide'.
These brand-new varieties from the TOTALLY STOKED™ Series are perfect for anyone just starting their green-thumb journey. With their stunning flowers, lush foliage, and ability to thrive in tough conditions, they’re sure to spark joy in your garden—and maybe even make you feel a little proud of your budding skills!
What Makes Stoke’s Aster So Special?
Stoke’s Aster (Stokesia laevis) is a native North American wildflower that’s been a favorite among gardeners for years. Why? It’s tough, low-maintenance, and produces gorgeous blooms that light up any garden bed. The TOTALLY STOKED™ Series, developed by the North Carolina State University hybridizing program, takes this classic plant to the next level.
These new varieties—‘Whitecaps’ and ‘Riptide’—are designed to handle the heat and humidity of southern summers, making them ideal for gardeners in warm climates. But don’t worry if you’re elsewhere; their adaptability and easygoing nature make them a great fit almost anywhere.
As a beginner, you’ll love how these plants grow into neat, dense clumps with rich, dark green leaves. They’re not too tall (moderately sized, as the pros say), so they won’t overwhelm your garden. Plus, their “good basal branching” (a fancy way of saying they spread out nicely at the base) means you’ll get tons of flowers from early summer all the way to late summer. That’s months of color with minimal effort—perfect for someone just learning the ropes!
Meet ‘Whitecaps’: A Soft, Elegant Beauty
Let’s start with Stokesia ‘Whitecaps’. Picture this: 2½- to 3-inch flowers that look almost pure white from a distance, with just a whisper of blush pink when you get up close. These blooms are like little clouds floating above the dark green foliage, giving your garden a fresh, airy vibe. They start popping up in midsummer and keep going into early fall—especially if you snip off the faded flowers (a trick called “deadheading” that’s super easy to learn).
For new gardeners, Whitecaps’ is a dream. It pairs beautifully with other late-summer stars like yellow or pink mums, or even white daisies if you want a monochromatic look. Plant it along a walkway, in a small flower bed, or even in a container on your patio—it’s versatile and forgiving. Plus, that heat tolerance means it won’t wilt under the sun while you’re still figuring out your watering schedule.
Say Hello to ‘Riptide’: A Cool Blue Wave
Now, if you’re drawn to bolder colors, Stokesia ‘Riptide’ might steal your heart. Its 2½- to 3-inch flowers are a stunning periwinkle blue—a soft, soothing shade that stands out without being too loud. Like ‘Whitecaps’, it blooms from midsummer to early fall (with deadheading), covering the plant in a sea of blue atop that same lush, dark green foliage. It’s a total showstopper, especially when paired with bright yellow flowers or contrasting whites.
‘Riptide’ is just as beginner-friendly as its sibling. It thrives in the heat, resists pests, and doesn’t demand constant attention. If you’re experimenting with color in your garden for the first time, this variety is a fantastic way to dip your toes into something a little more adventurous while still keeping things manageable.
Tips for Growing Stoke’s Aster as a New Gardener
Ready to give ‘Whitecaps’ or ‘Riptide’ a try? Here’s how to get started:
- Pick a Sunny Spot: Stoke’s Aster loves full sun, though it can handle a bit of afternoon shade if your summers are scorching. Find a place in your yard that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Prepare the Soil: Good news—you don’t need to be a soil expert! These plants do well in average soil if it drains decently. If your dirt is super compacted or soggy, mix in some compost or sand to loosen it up.
- Water Wisely: Water your new plants regularly until they settle in (about the first month or so). After that, they’re pretty drought-tolerant—great for forgetful waterers like me when I started out!
- Deadhead for More Blooms: Once the flowers fade, snip them off with scissors or pruning shears. It’s easy, and it encourages the plant to keep blooming longer.
- Enjoy the Show: Sit back and watch your garden come to life! These plants are low-fuss, so you can focus on enjoying them rather than stressing over complicated care.
Why New Gardeners Will Love These Varieties
The TOTALLY STOKED™ Series isn’t just about pretty flowers—it’s about giving you, the new gardener, a win. ‘Whitecaps’ and ‘Riptide’ are tough enough to handle beginner mistakes, like forgetting to water or planting in less-than-perfect soil. They’re also native wildflowers, so they’re naturally in tune with the environment, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies (a bonus for nature lovers!). And with their long bloom time, you’ll feel like a pro as your garden stays colorful for months.
Final Thoughts: Get TOTALLY STOKED™!
Whether you go for the soft elegance of ‘Whitecaps’ or the cool charm of ‘Riptide’, these Stoke’s Asters are a fantastic way to kick off your gardening adventure. They’re beautiful, beginner-friendly, and built to thrive—everything a new gardener could ask for. So, grab a trowel, pick your favorite (or both!), and get ready to grow something amazing. You’ve got this—and Stokesia’s got your back!
