Blazing star (Liatris spicata 'Kobold') lee-AT-tris spih-KAY-tah Synonyms:  'Goblin' Genus:  Liatris

This cultivar of a U.S. prairie plant offers the garden spikes of purple, fuzzy-looking flowers that open from the top down on plants up to 2 feet tall and 18 inches wide. The show starts in late summer and attracts butterflies and bees. Grow it in a moist meadow or border. The flowers are also beautiful in a vase.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Fuzzy purple flower spikes. U.S. native. Attracts butterflies and bees. No staking is needed.

Care: 

Needs consistently moist, light, well-drained soil and full sun.

Propagation: 

Divide clumps in spring, or start seeds in a cold frame in fall.

Problems: 

Stem rot, rust, leaf spots, snails, slugs.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant Type Perennials