Blazing Star Gayfeather
Liatris spicata
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Liatris spicata, commonly known as Blazing Star or Gayfeather, is a perennial plant characterized by its tall, spiky flower heads that bloom in late summer, attracting various pollinators. This species is notable for its ability to thrive in poor soils and its stunning vertical flower spikes that add height and interest to garden beds.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain soil moisture and encourage root growth.
- Transplant young plants after the last frost for optimal establishment.
- Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to promote vigor.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for robust flowering and growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 💧
- Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms ✂️
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and control weeds
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilizing late in the season ❌
- Don’t disturb roots when dividing ❌
- Never leave soil compacted around roots ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Blazing Star Gayfeather questions
What zones can Blazing Star Gayfeather grow in?
Blazing Star Gayfeather is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Blazing Star Gayfeather deer resistant?
Yes — Blazing Star Gayfeather is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Blazing Star Gayfeather bloom?
Blazing Star Gayfeather typically blooms in mid to late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Blazing Star Gayfeather need full sun?
Blazing Star Gayfeather does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Blazing Star Gayfeather drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blazing Star Gayfeather handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Liatris to compare
Kobold Blazing Star
Liatris spicata 'Kobold'
Prairie Blazing Star
Liatris pycnostachya
Dwarf Blazing Star
Liatris microcephala
Floristan White Blazing Star
Liatris spicata 'Floristan Weiss'
Rough Gayfeather
Liatris aspera
Liatris spicata Kobold Original
Liatris spicata 'Kobold Original'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Blazing Star Gayfeather with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
