Liatris spicata - Blazing Star/spike gayfeather

A garden flower is known for its showy purple flowers that attract birds and butterflies.

Native to eastern North America where it grows in meadows and moist prairies, Liatris spicata grows best in moist, fertile, well-drained soils. Blooms in tall spikes of purple flowers that look like feathers that grow one to five feet tall.

Historically Native Americans used the root of the plant as a medicine. Now it is used for a sore throat, as an herbal insect repellent, and in potpourri.

"Cherokees relieved stomach aches by drinking a tea made from the roots." - Cornell University Botanical Gardens

Height: 2-4 ft

Sun: Sun

Water: Medium

Bloom color: Red-purple

Bloom time: July,August