Makin, Julie
Liatris spicata (L.) Willd.
Dense blazing star, Dense gayfeather, Marsh blazing star
Asteraceae (Aster Family)
Dense gayfeather or marsh blazing star is an erect, slender
perennial reaching a height of 3-4 ft. The linear, grass-like leaves are clumped toward the base of the plant, but extend up the
stem to the showy flower cluster. A tall
spike of rayless, rose-purple (sometimes white), closely set flower heads. The purple, tufted flower heads are arranged in a long, dense
spike blooming from the top down.
The species name describes the elongated
inflorescence, with its crowded, stalkless flower heads. The protruding styles give the flower an overall feathery appearance, hence its
alternate name, Dense Gayfeather.
Image Gallery:
21 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Herb Size Notes: 3-4
Leaf: Green
Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 3-6 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Purple
Bloom Time: Jul , Aug , Sep
Distribution
USA: AL , AR , CT , DE , FL , GA , IL , IN , KY , LA , MD , MA , MI , MS , MO , NJ , NY , NC , OH , PA , SC , TN , VA , WV , WI , DC
Canada: ON ,
QC Native Distribution: NJ to MI & IL, s. to FL & LA; naturalized northeastward
Native Habitat: Moist, wood openings; mesic prairies; marsh edges
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium
Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
CaCO3 Tolerance: Low
Soil Description: Moist, average soils.
Conditions Comments: Not Available
Benefit
Use Wildlife: Butterflies frequent Liatris spp.
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Attracts: Birds , Hummingbirds
Last Update: 2012-12-07
