Dense blazing star - Liatris spicata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Dense blazing star

Also known as: Prairie gay feather, Button snakewort

Dense blazing star (Liatris spicata) is a flowering plant native to eastern North America. It comes from the same genetic family as sunflowers and daisies. The dense blazing star is a popular choice for a variety of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. These plants have rather exacting demands on the soil, but benefit the local ecosystem by attracting scores of pollinating insects.

Scientific classification

Species

Dense blazing star (Liatris spicata)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, White, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Purple, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Dense blazing star

Attributes of Dense blazing star

Growth Rate

During the summer, dense blazing star exhibits a slow growth rate typically manifesting in gradual height increase, and measured leaf production. This season-specific sluggishness enhances its resilience, tolerating droughts well due to lower nutrient demand. However, its slow bloom formation might extend into early fall.

Distribution of Dense blazing star

Distribution Map

Dense blazing star is native to the prairies and marshlands of central and eastern parts of North America, and it has also been introduced to the wild in five European countries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Meadows, borders of marshes, savannahs, damp slopes, poor dry ridges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The dense blazing star is prized for its ornamental flowering spikes and is often grown within perennial borders of prairie gardens as a vertical accent. It is also great for cottage and native plant gardens because of its low care requirements. The plant is well accompanied by plants such as rudbeckia and echinacea. Grasses such as fountain grass and Mexican feather grass also are flattering accompaniments to the dense blazing star.

Symbolism

Vigilance, hard work, love aflame

Interesting Facts

There are always many beautiful things along the path. For example, the beautiful purple dense blazing star. Its flowers bloom in clusters on stems, like the shape of a snake.

Name Story

Dense blazing star||Prairie gay feather: The purple, tufted flower heads are arranged in a long, dense spike blooming from the top down. The specific epithet describes the elongated inflorescence, crowded and stalkless flower heads. This dense appearance looks like a blazing star, so it is called a dense blazing star.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Dense blazing star, including the following common varieties :

Dense blazing star 'Kobold'Dense blazing star 'Alba'

Quickly Identify Dense blazing star

Tall perennial herb, reaching 3-6 feet (90-180 cm), forming compact clumps with grass-like foliage.

Showy flowers on 6-12 inch (15-30 cm) long spikes, blooming from top down with vibrant colors.

Distinctive cypselae fruit with stiff, light brown bristles under 0.2 inches (5 mm) long for wind dispersal.

Basal leaves with deep green color, smooth to sparsely hairy, up to 12 inches (30 cm) long.

Round stem, green to purplish, 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall, unbranched with fine pubescence.

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Care Guide for Dense blazing star

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist prairies, dense blazing star prefers consistent moisture and can tolerate brief droughts when established. A weekly watering schedule is recommended for optimal hydration. Typically grown outdoors, dense blazing star aligns its growth cycle with seasonal rainfall patterns.

Fertilize: Dense blazing star thrives with balanced or high-phosphorus fertilizers applied biannually in spring and early summer. Avoid over-fertilization; growth slows during dormancy. Use gradual-release formulas, apply carefully without contacting foliage, and water thoroughly post-application to enhance root absorption and prevent burn.

Pruning: Dense blazing star features tall, spiky blooms and thrives with selective pruning in early to late spring. Remove dead stems and spent flower stalks to enhance growth and appearance. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent weakening; regular shaping improves airflow and sunlight exposure for healthier blooms.

Propagation: Dense blazing star is a popular perennial known for its striking purple spikes. Effective propagation involves splitting clumps during dormancy, ensuring each division has roots. Replant at the original depth and space adequately, providing regular watering to support healthy root and shoot development.

Repotting: Before potting, it is essential to refine seedlings to ensure healthy growth and development. Proper care during this stage will enhance their adaptability and vigor once planted in their permanent location.

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