Dense Blazing Star
Do an internet search of the words “native,” “prairie,” “pollinator” and “purple,” and the genus Liatris will most definitely be in the top three along with purple prairie clover, and purple coneflower. Folks collectively refer to the perennial genus Liatris as the Blazing Stars or Gayfeathers, in reference to their bright and beautiful purple blooms that resemble luminescent purple feathers that run along their flowering stalk.
This particular species of Liatris we refer to as Dense Blazing Star is the most commonly used out of all of them because it does well in a wide range of sites and conditions, from flower beds in the yard, to a big prairie from the southern heat in zone 9 all the way up into zone 3 up north . In other words, it performs equally well whether that be around your mailbox in the front yard, or in a big field on the back 40. Once established they are quite drought tolerant and will come back every year. The flower spikes work well in floral arrangements and are known for keeping their blooms for longer than normal in a vase.
The plants themselves have dark green, shiny grass-like bases that resemble small clumps of monkey-grass, but these are much better because they are native. In the summer it forms a spike that is covered in the grass-like leaves that will grow up to 4 feet tall and when it blooms will be absolutely covered in tiny, bright, purple flowers (resembling a big bottle-brush) that are attractive to all types of moths, bees, butterflies, skippers, hummingbird moths, and hummingbirds. After the bloom, they produce seeds that attracts many songbirds including chickadees, titmice, buntings, and finches. The insects that utilize Liatris will also provide food for birds.
Planting zones 3-9
pH 4.7-7.8
pollinators, birds, native landscaping, deer resistant
Photo Credit: Mitchell Bell, Wild Horse Prairie
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No Refund Policy:
Mossy Oak Nativ Nurseries (Nativ Nurseries) guarantees that our product will arrive in good condition, alive, and true to its name as labeled. We take care in packaging our products. If your order is incorrect or does not arrive in good condition, contact our customer service desk within five (5) business days from your receipt of the product to report any mistake in your order or damage to the product. No refunds will be given however but, we will fix our mistake or rectify any damage by replacing the product at our expense. Nativ Nurseries makes no warranty, expressed or implied for any certain rate of growth or productivity for any of our plant products. Nativ Nurseries will not be responsible for crop failure, damage to products after the customer has received an order, or injuries due to non-recommended zone planting, frost damage, or any man made or natural cause beyond our control. Nativ Nurseries will consider replacing an order if a claim is made in writing or e-mail within five (5) business days from your receipt of the product explaining in detail what problems have occurred. However, Nativ Nurseries reserves the right to refuse replacement at any time.
