Stokesia laevis

Stokesia laevis is a plant native to the southeastern coastal plain, from South Carolina westward. It is naturally found in wetland habitats. It is best cultivated in moist to wet soils, and in sun to full shade. It has a strong basal rosette of leaves that mostly die back in the winter, and large showy purple flowers that bloom in the summer. These flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators, and are fairly resistant to deer. Stokesia laevis is an excellent specimen plant for a rain garden or yard.