Lawn Guardian

Blazing Star Care Guide

Liatris spicata

perennialZones 3–9nativedeer resistant

Distinctive native prairie flower with dense spikes of purple-pink flowers that uniquely open from top to bottom. A monarch butterfly magnet and excellent cut flower.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Clear old stems Early spring

Remove dried flower spikes from last year.

Summer

Enjoy and observe pollinators During bloom

Liatris is a premier pollinator plant. Expect heavy butterfly and bee activity during bloom.

Fall

Leave seed heads for birds Fall

Allow seed heads to remain through winter for goldfinches and sparrows.

Ecological value

Premier butterfly plant especially for monarchs during migration. Also attracts native bees and hummingbirds. Seed heads eaten by goldfinches.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns