Liatris pycnostachya

Also called Prairie Blazing Star, Cat-tail Blazing star

Clump-forming habit with upright spikes
Fluffy thistle-like deep rose-purple flower heads at the ends of the spikes blooming from top down
Narrow green leaves held horizontally on the sides of the spikes
Attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators
Hold colour well as cut flowers and dried flowers

ZONE:
3

HEIGHT:
60-140 cm

SPREAD:
50-60 cm

Currently Unavailable

Substitutions Are Available

Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Grown in average to dry, well-drained soils in full sun. Somewhat tolerant of poor soils. Prefers dry, sandy or rocky, alkaline soils. Will grow taller in fertile loams, but may need staking. Intolerant of wet soils in winter. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity.

Additional Notes about Prairie Gayfeather:

Almost native

Larval host for many species of native moths, including the Glorious Flower Moth. The flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, bumblebees, and wasps, and provide late season nectar for migrating butterflies. The seeds are enjoyed by many small birds.