Liatris spicata

A tall, upright, clump-forming perennial native to moist lowlands, meadows, and marshes. This plant has sessile, rounded, fluffy, deep purple flower heads that appear atop rigid, erect, leafy stalks.

A tuft of narrow, medium-green leaves grows from the base of the plant. As the stem leaves grow higher, their size gradually decreases. Summer is when it blooms. The flower heads of Liatris are composed of fluffy disk flowers (resembling "blazing stars"). Another common name for liatris is gayfeather because of its feathery flower heads.

Well-drained soil in full sun is ideal for growing this plant. Somewhat tolerant of poor soils but prefers moist, fertile ones and generally performs better in moist soils than most other species of Liatris. Intolerant of wet soils in winter. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity. It may be grown from seed but is slow to establish.

Height: 2’-4'
Spread .75" -1.5."
Bloom: July-August
Light: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Low
Zone: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Origin: Texas
Deer Resistant: No