How to identify Rough blazing star (Liatris aspera)

How to identify Rough blazing star (Liatris aspera)

Rough blazing star, also known as Lacerate, Gayfeather, Rough Liatris , Tall blazing star, Tall gayfeather

Rough blazing star grows from bulb-like corms and stands tall with spires of vibrant purple blossoms that unfold in late summer to fall. Each composite flower head is composed of tubular florets, affixed to erect, rough-textured stems that reach heights of 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm). The foliage beneath is narrow and grass-like, forming a clump at the plant's base. This showy bloom array makes it a haven for pollinators, notably butterflies, adding to its visual allure.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Rough blazing star

Vibrant purple flowers in fluffy disc-shaped clusters along stems.

Narrow lance-shaped leaves, up to 12 inches long with pubescent texture.

Dry achenes with large tufts of stiff, greyish-brown hairs for wind dispersal.

Erect stem with green to dark red color and slight roughness from hairs.

Late-summer blooming reaching heights of 2-4 feet, attracting pollinators.

Detailed Traits of Rough blazing star

Leaf Features

The leaves of rough blazing star are narrow, lance-shaped, and primarily found at the base. They can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. As they ascend the stalk, the leaves become shorter and narrower. The texture is slightly pubescent, giving them a subtle, hairy feel. Their vein pattern is typical of lance-shaped leaves, prominently displayed on the green, somewhat elongated blades.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of rough blazing star are vibrant purple and appear as fluffy, disc-shaped clusters densely packed along the stem. Each flower head is composed of numerous tiny florets that give it a soft, feathery texture. These striking clusters can be found in rounded groups and bloom prominently from August to October. The individual florets' sizes contribute to the overall cluster appearance, making them highly noticeable. This late-summer blooming is commonly 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall, providing a standout feature in gardens.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of rough blazing star is characterized by its green to dark red hue, adorned with short, stiff hairs giving it a slightly rough texture. It stands erect and generally reaches heights between 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm). The stem is relatively unbranched, maintaining a straightforward upward growth pattern. The color can vary depending on its age and environmental factors, with young stems often appearing greener and older ones darker red.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of rough blazing star consists of small, dry, one-seeded fruits known as achenes. These achenes are notable for their large tufts of stiff hair that exhibit a light greyish-brown hue. The texture of the hair is coarse, contributing to the fruit’s overall rough feel. With these plumose hairs, the achenes are well-adapted for wind dispersal, taking advantage of breezes to spread from the parent plant. The fruiting period occurs from September to October, during which time these distinctive achenes mature and are released.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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