Description

Liatris spicata produces tall, bottlebrush flower spikes in violet/purple through mid to late summer, adding strong vertical colour to borders and prairie-style planting. This is a herbaceous perennial that returns each year once established. It performs best in a sunny position and in moist but well-drained soil; avoid waterlogged ground, especially over winter. The flower spikes are popular with pollinating insects and can also be used as cut or dried flowers. Supplied as dry, dormant corms/bulbs (not potted plants), ready for planting in the suitable season. Delivered in recyclable packaging with planting guidance included. As with all bulbs/corms, flowering time and height can vary with planting time, weather and growing conditions.

Supplied as proper flowering-size corms (not seeds). Unlike seed-grown Liatris, corms produce reliable flowering in their first season after planting

Also known as (other names):
Blazing Star, Gayfeather, Dense Blazing Star, Button Snakewort, Kansas Gay Feather

Key Benefits

• Strong vertical colour for borders and mixed beds
• Summer flowering (typically July–August)
• Perennial – returns each year once established
• Great in wildlife and pollinator-friendly gardens
• Suitable for cut flowers and drying
• Works well in prairie-style and naturalistic planting
• Low-maintenance once settled in the right spot
• Distinctive flower spikes that open from the top downward
• Ideal companion for grasses and late-summer perennials

Pollinator Friendly

Liatris spicata is a nectar- and pollen-rich plant and is widely grown in pollinator gardens. The flowers are known to attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects when in bloom. Wildlife activity varies by location, weather and season.

Best Companion Bulbs to Plant Together

For a fuller display and a longer season of interest, Liatris spicata pairs well with other sun-loving bulbs/corms/tubers that enjoy well-drained soil. Consider mixing early and late bloomers for continuous colour through the season:

• Allium (ornamental alliums): spring to early summer colour before Liatris
• Lilium (lilies): summer flowering with similar sunny border use
• Gladiolus: summer spikes that complement Liatris’ vertical form
• Crocosmia: midsummer colour and movement in sunny borders
• Dahlia tubers: late summer to autumn colour to extend the season

Tip: plant in small groups (rather than single bulbs) for a more impactful, “designed” look.

Product Details

• Product: Liatris spicata (Blazing Star)
• Pack size: 10 corms/bulbs
• Flower colour: Purple / Violet (may appear pinkish-purple depending on conditions)
• Bulb/Corm size: 8/10
• Plant type: Herbaceous perennial (grown from corms)
• Growing difficulty: Easy, with correct drainage

More Reasons to Choose Liatris

• Looks great in groups for a fuller display
• Adds height and structure without taking much space
• Pairs beautifully with Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Salvia and ornamental grasses
• Helpful for filling the late-summer colour gap
• Works in borders, cottage gardens and wildlife gardens
• Can be grown in large pots with free-draining compost
• Neat, upright growth habit
• Good choice for sunny, well-drained spots
• Natural product – each corm may vary slightly in size/shape
• Dormant corms store and travel well when packed properly

Growing Information

• Flowering time: July–August (mid/late summer)
• Height: approx. 0.5–1 m at maturity
• Position: Full sun (a bright, open spot is best)
• Soil: Moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter

Planting Guide (simple steps)

1. Unpack on arrival and store cool and dry until planting.
2. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil; improve drainage with grit if needed.
3. Plant after the risk of hard frost has passed.
4. Place each corm just below the soil surface and cover gently.
5. Water lightly after planting, then keep soil lightly moist while establishing (do not overwater).
6. For best impact, plant in groups and allow space between plants for airflow.

Good to know

• Liatris flower spikes open from the top downward, which is unusual among perennials.
• Growth is from corms (often sold as bulbs) – a natural storage organ.
• Good drainage is key; wet winter soil can reduce performance.
• Leaving stems over winter can add structure; cut back in late winter/early spring.

What You Will Receive

• Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) – pack of 10 corms/bulbs
• Bulb size: 8/10
• Eco-friendly recyclable packaging
• Planting and care instructions included

Thank you for looking.