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Native Plant Database

Header Photo: Mervin Wallace

Prairie Blazing Star

Liatris pycnostachya
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Prairie
Season of Interest: Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Purple
Fall Color:

USDA PLANTS Range Map

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Purple flowers of Liatris pycnostachya
Photo: Mervin Wallace. Scroll down to see this species used in landscaping.
Sun Exposure 
Full Sun
Soil
Moisture
Moderate, High
Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Hummingbird, Pollinators/Beneficial Insects, Songbirds
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Nectar, Food/Birds, Food/Pollinators
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant
Size

Height:

30 to
50
inches

Spread:

12 to
24
inches
Size
Height: 30 to
50
inches
Spread: 12 to
24
inches
Size
Height: 30 to
50
inches
Spread: 12 to
24
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Perennial borders, cutting gardens, native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, naturalized areas, prairies or meadows.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil but will grow in drier conditions.
Special Features
Special Usage
Dried Flower, Fresh Cut Flower
Basic Description

Unbranched stalks bear dense spikes of rose-purple, purple, or violet flowers in July and August on strong stems. The nectar-rich flowers are a favorite with butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Songbirds love the seed.

Prairie Blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya) not yet in full bloom. Photo by Jes Holtz.

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