Care of the plant Liatris spicata or Dense blazing star |
The genus Liatris, family Asteraceae, comprises 40 species of perennial herbaceous plants native to North America. Some species are: Liatris spicata, Liatris cylindracea, Liatris graminifolia, Liatris pycnostachya. Common names: Dense blazing star, Gayfeather, Prairie gay feather. This species is native to eastern North America. They are perennial herbaceous plants that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height. They have an erect flower stalk covered with fine lanceolate, deep green leaves. The showy flowers appear in long spikes at the end of the stem and can be lilac, red, purple or pink. They bloom in summer. Dense blazing star is used in mixed borders, on borders, in pots for balconies and terraces and as cut flowers. Liatris spicata requires semi-shade exposure in Mediterranean climates and full sun in colder climates. The soil can be a mixture of 2/3 garden soil and 1/3 coarse sand. Planting or transplanting is done in spring or autumn. Gayfeather is an easy to grow plant that needs almost daily watering but with little amount of water (one glass per plant). Fertilize in autumn with compost and mineral fertilizer every 15 days during spring and summer. Prune wilted flower stalks 20 cm (7.87") from the base. Prairie gay feather propagates from seeds sown in spring or by division. |
Images of the plant Liatris spicata or Dense blazing star |