Devil's bite (Liatris scariosa)

Devil's bite

Also known as: Nieuwland's blazing star

Devil's bite is a perennial wildflower with a distinctive tall, slender spike of purple to mauve flower heads blooming in late summer. Its grass-like foliage forms a tuft at the base, supporting the erect stalks that can reach up to 4 feet in height. Devil's bite thrives in well-drained soils of prairies and open woodlands, attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees with its nectar-rich blooms.

Scientific classification

Species

Devil's bite (Liatris scariosa)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

61 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Devil's bite

Quickly Identify Devil's bite

Tubular, fringe-like flowers on terminal spikes, larger with high floret count.

Bowl-shaped flower heads in purplish, rose-pink, or white with protruding style branches.

Oval achene fruit with tufts of barbed hairs for dispersal, firm texture.

Leaves reduce in size up stem, ovate to lanceolate, soft-hairy to rough texture.

Unbranched, upright stems with fine hair texture, up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall, rigid.

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Care Guide for Devil's bite

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Devil's bite thrives in arid environments and shows strong drought tolerance. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks. As a deciduous plant, devil's bite sheds leaves annually, necessitating increased moisture during this period to promote new growth.

Fertilize: The devil's bite thrives in healthy soil without fertilizer. However, light fertilization may benefit spring growth or if growth slows. An all-purpose or slow-release fertilizer can support initial growth at planting, but in rich soils, the devil's bite typically requires no supplemental fertilization.

Pruning: Devil's bite thrives with minimal pruning; trim in early spring to stimulate growth and remove dead stems. Light pruning enhances airflow and prevents diseases. Use clean, sharp tools to reduce stress and disease risks, ensuring a healthier, more appealing addition to your garden.

Propagation: Devil's bite is propagated by sowing seeds in a well-draining medium, ensuring consistent moisture. Lightly cover seeds for germination and place them in a warm, indirect light environment. Once seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them to a sunny location.

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