Liatris
Liatris spp. (incl. L. spicata, L. pycnostachya)
Liatris, known as Blazing Star or Gayfeather, is a striking North American native perennial with tall wands of vivid purple or white fluffy flower spikes that bloom from top to bottom. It symbolizes joy, happiness, and the bold beauty of the American prairie.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Mid to late summer (July–September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gerberas and chrysanthemums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Liatris has become one of the most recognizable symbols of the American prairie landscape, with its vivid purple spires lighting up meadows from the Great Plains to the Eastern seaboard. As a florist flower, it gained international recognition in the 20th century and is now grown commercially around the world, often exported from Dutch bulb farms. Its unusual habit of blooming from the top of the spike downward — the opposite of most flowers — has made it a subject of curiosity and admiration. For prairie restoration movements, Liatris is an iconic native plant representing the effort to reclaim and celebrate North America's vanishing grassland heritage.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for best flowering and sturdy upright stems
Water
Drought-tolerant once established; dislikes waterlogged or overly wet winter soils which can rot the corms
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy to loamy, Average fertility, Tolerates clay if not waterlogged
Expert Growing Tips
Plant corms in spring, 2–4 inches deep, in well-drained soil in full sun
Excellent drought tolerance once established — avoid overwatering
Ensure good drainage, especially in winter, to prevent corm rot
Staking may be needed in rich soils or part shade where stems become floppy
Deadhead spent spikes to encourage a tidier appearance and possible rebloom
Leave seed heads standing through winter for birds — goldfinches love the seeds
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Prairie and meadow gardens for late-season color
- Cottage gardens, perennial borders, and pollinator gardens
- Cut flowers — one of the most popular florist flowers; long vase life
- Dried flowers for arrangements
- Butterfly and bee gardens — an exceptional pollinator plant
- Vertical accent plant in mixed borders
Traditional Uses
- Several Liatris species were used by Native American peoples to treat sore throats, kidney and bladder ailments, and as a diuretic
- Root preparations were used by the Lakota and other Plains peoples for various therapeutic purposes
- Limited modern clinical use; primarily valued as a garden ornamental and pollinator plant today
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Liatris
What is liatris also known as?
Liatris is commonly known as Blazing Star or Gayfeather. Other names include Dense Blazing Star (L. spicata), Prairie Blazing Star, Spike Gayfeather, and Button Snakeroot. It is also widely recognized simply as "Liatris" in the florist trade.
What does liatris symbolize?
Liatris symbolizes joy, happiness, and bliss. Its bold, upright purple spires evoke enthusiasm and admiration, making it a popular choice for celebratory bouquets and expressions of joyful affection.
When does liatris bloom?
Liatris blooms in mid to late summer, typically from July through September. It is one of the most valuable mid-season bloomers for prairie and cottage gardens, providing vivid color when many spring flowers have faded.
Does liatris attract pollinators?
Yes, Liatris is an exceptional pollinator plant. Its flowers are magnets for monarch butterflies, swallowtails, bumblebees, and many other native pollinators. The seed heads also attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds in fall and winter.
How do you grow liatris?
Plant Liatris corms in spring, 2–4 inches deep, in well-drained soil in full sun. It is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in average to lean soils — overly rich soils can cause floppy stems. Ensure good drainage to prevent corm rot over winter.
Why does liatris bloom from the top down?
Liatris is one of the few flowers that blooms from the top of its spike downward, which is the opposite of most spiked flowers. This unusual trait is a natural botanical quirk that makes it uniquely attractive to florists and gardeners, and ensures that the showiest flowers are at eye level first.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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