Genus Liatris (Blazing star, Gayfeather)

Liatris aspera Photo/Illustration: Virginia Small

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Common Name: Blazing star, Gayfeather

These perennials from the prairies and open woodlands of eastern and central North America produce spikes of pinkish purple or white button-like flowers that, when open, appear fringed. They open from the top of the spike down, which is unusual in the plant world. Leaves are grassy and grow in tufts. Grow massed in a border or meadow, or plant in a cut flower garden.
Noteworthy characteristics: North American natives. Spikes of fringed or feathery flowers that open from the top downward. Attracts bees and butterflies. Good cut flowers.
Care: Grow in full sun in a light, moist but well-drained soil. L. spicata needs consistently moist soil. Protect from excessive winter moisture.
Propagation: Start seed in a cold frame in fall, or divide in spring.
Problems: Slugs and snails may damage plants, while stem rot, rust, and leaf spots commonly occur.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Liatris

Liatris aspera
(Rough gayfeather, Rough blazing star) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This tuberous perennial has dense clusters of linear, rough leaves borne in basal tufts to 16 inches long. Dense spikes, up to 18 inches long, of button-like lavender-purple flowerheads are borne in late summer and early autumn. Blooms open from the top of the inflorescences downward.

Liatrus spicata
(Blazing star, gayfeather)

(2 user reviews)

Hardiness Zones:

This hardy herbaceous perennial has grass-like, strappy leaves and 3- to 5-foot-tall spikes of purple-pink flowers in late summer and early fall. Native to the eastern and southern United States, this tough perennial prefers reliably moist soil but will tolerate drought. It provides a bold, vertical element to mixed borders and attracts bees and butterflies. It has been observed to be resistant to deer browsing and self-sows freely. The flowers are suitable for cutting.

Liatris spicata 'Kobold'
(Blazing star, Gayfeather)

(5 user reviews)

Hardiness Zones:

This cultivar of a U.S. prairie plant offers the garden spikes of purple, fuzzy-looking flowers that open from the top down on plants up to 2 feet tall and 18 inches wide. The show starts in late summer and attracts butterflies and bees. Grow it in a moist meadow or border. The flowers are also beautiful in a vase.