Spike Gayfeather

Liatris spicata

$16.00

| Hardiness Zones 3-9

Liatris spicata, commonly known as Blazing Star or Gayfeather, is a striking native wildflower that brings vertical interest and vibrant color to gardens with its tall, feathery flower spikes. Native to the prairies, meadows, and wetlands of eastern North America, Liatris spicata has a rich ecological and cultural history rooted in the vast open landscapes that once stretched across the continent.

Historically, Liatris spicata has been admired by Native American tribes not only for its beauty but also for its medicinal properties. Various parts of the plant were used in traditional herbal remedies to treat conditions like swelling, respiratory issues, and digestive disorders. Today, while its medicinal use has faded, it remains a beloved garden favorite for its ability to attract pollinators and create a dynamic display of color in the landscape.

Botanical Significance

Liatris spicata is perfectly suited to its native habitat, thriving in open, sunny areas with well-drained soil. In the wild, it was a prominent part of prairie ecosystems, coexisting with grasses and other wildflowers to create stunning, natural displays. Its tall, spike-like flower stalks, which grow up to 4 feet tall, were a beacon for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds—pollinators still attracted to its nectar-rich blossoms today.

Photos courtesy of James Reveal

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

PLANT DETAILS

Hardiness Zones: 3 - 9

Soil: Well-drained

Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade

Seasonal Behavior:

Growth Rate:

Height at Maturity: 2 - 4 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 6 - 10 Inches

Liatris spicata produces tall, slender spikes of feathery, vibrant purple flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The flowers are densely packed along the length of each spike and open from the top down, giving the plant a distinctive, eye-catching appearance. Each flower consists of many tiny, star-shaped florets that collectively create a soft, fluffy texture reminiscent of a bottlebrush.

The flower spikes, which can reach heights of 3 to 4 feet, rise above the plant's grassy foliage, creating a vertical burst of color that stands out in any garden. While purple is the most common color, some cultivars may produce blooms in shades of lavender, pink, or white. The long-lasting flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making Liatris spicata a favorite in pollinator-friendly gardens.

As the flowers fade, they give way to fluffy seed heads that also provide interest into the fall. These seeds are a food source for birds, adding ecological value beyond the blooming season. With its dramatic spikes and soft texture, Liatris spicata adds height, color, and movement to the garden, making it a perfect choice for borders, wildflower gardens, and naturalized landscapes.

tall spikes of mauve flowers from basal rosette

Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade.

Soil: Prefers well-drained soil, though it can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.

Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots; afterward, it becomes drought-tolerant.

Winter Care: Liatris spicata is hardy and requires no special winter care. In colder climates, the dead stems can be cut back in late fall or early spring.

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