Liatris pycnostachya [sold as Prairie Blazing Star]
Prairie Blazing Star

Family:

Genus:

Plant Type:

Growth Forms:

Hardiness:

Flower Notes:

Rounded, fluffy, deep purple flower heads (3/4" across) are crowded into terminal spikes.

Foliage Notes:

Narrow, lance-shaped leaves (up to 12" long).

Stem Notes:

Unbranched, rigid, hairy central stems.

Fruit Notes:

Small, tufted achenes with feathery bristles for wind dispersal in autumn.

Ultimate Height:

2-5' feet

Ultimate Spread:

1-2' feet

Bloom Times:

Fruiting Times:

Light Requirements:

Soil Water Requirements:

Soil Notes:

Best grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils.

Range:

Commonly occurs in prairies, open woods, meadows and along railroad tracks and roads in central and eastern United States.

Maintenance:

Ecological Functions:

Purdue Plant Doctor

Special Characteristics: