Liatris Spicata

Product Details

Like other Blazing Stars, Liatris spicata is an easy-care, clump-forming, upright pollinator magnet. Native to eastern Canada and eastern and central portions of the US, it produces densely crowded spikes of feathery, reddish-purple flower heads, which are sometimes accented with white. Unlike some of its relatives, this native of marsh perimeters, meadows, and lowlands thrives in moist, fertile soils (although plants will not flourish in areas that are wet in winter). Established plants tolerate drought. While most top out at 2-4’, some rise as high as 6’, creating a towering waystation for butterflies and bees in the sunny summer garden, as well as for songbirds later in the season, who feast on the seeds. Taller plants may need staking or the support of a fence or surrounding companions. This Liatris is an excellent replacement plant for the invasive Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).

The genus Liatris, native to North America, includes about 40 species all beloved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Their fluffy, somewhat star-like or feathery blossoms (from which the common names Blazing Star and Gayfeather derive) open from top to bottom on tall flower spikes which stand above basal clusters of attractive, linear foliage. Liatris make fantastic accent plants in summer-blooming borders and beds (appearing to best advantage when planted in groups), and they are central to any pollinator garden. The flower stalks are superb for cutting and drying, as well. Plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Depending on the species, they may tolerate moist or dry conditions. As members of the Aster family, Liatris are unusual in that their individual blossoms comprise only disc flowers, not a combination of disc and ray flowers characteristic of the composite blooms in this family (as seen in the common Daisy).

For more information on growing and care, click Growing Guide.