Liatris spicata
Zones 4-9
20 seeds
Ontario native.
Also called 'Gayfeather'
Shooting bolt upright out of the garden bed, Blazing Star is a bold statement in the mixed border.
The strong spikes of rosy-purple flowers are the most prominent feature of the plant, rising 75-90 cm (29-35 inches) in a feathery burst of colour.
Blooming in the difficult-to-fill midsummer, the plants prefer moisture but tolerate poor soil. They are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, and are good cut flowers.
Performing well in meadow gardens as well as cottage garden settings, it prefers full sun and is unappealing to deer.
It is easily grown from seed, blooming in the second year.
Native in the Eastern US, and in Ontario but endangered there due to habitat loss.
Plant type: perennial
Height: 75-90 cm (29-35 inches)
Site: full sun to part shade
Plant spacing: 20”
Direct sow in late Fall or early Winter or early Spring.
Plants generally will not bloom until their second year.
Seeding depth: 3mm (1/8”)
Needs light to germinate.
Harvesting/Vase Life:
When the buds show color but before the flowers have opened.
