Blazing Star
Liatris spicata
Courtesy Julie Makin, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Summary
There are a number of species of blazing star, all featuring grass-like foliage, with tall spikes of flowers in hues ranging from red to purple. Liatris spicata, AKA dense blazing star or marsh blazing star, has showy flower spikes of tufted purple blooms. As the latter common name suggests, L. spicata is the most moisture-tolerant of the species, preferring sunny, well-drained spots.
More Details
FAMILY
Asteraceae (Aster)
BLOOM TIME
July-August
FLOWER
Red-violet/Violet
MATURE SIZE
2-4 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Sun to part shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
Average to moist
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
Blazing star’s flowers are attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Flower spikes bloom from the top down, making nectar available for a long period. Scientists from the Xerces Society and their native seed nursery partners are investigating the role of chemical cues in attracting monarch butterflies to blazing star from considerable distances away. The caterpillars of larval forms of the liatris flower moth (Schinia sanguinea) feed on the flowers and seeds, and the larval form of the liatris borer moth (Carmenta anthracipennis) eat the stems. The seeds are especially relished by songbirds such as goldfinches.
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