Plant Preference/Growing Conditions:

Gayfeather is best grown in full sun in well-drained soils. They prefer acidic soils but are tolerant to most soil types. 

Growth Habit/Description:

Tall perennial flower up to 6' in height and 1-2' wide with small and crowded flowers. Flowers are purple and facing all directions. Grass-like leaves that turn bronze in the fall. Does not spread aggressively so can be planted in more refined areas. Self-seeding. Medium pace growing, but slow to bloom. 

Bloom Season:

Small purple flowers bloom from top down in July-September. 

Fall and/or Winter Interest?

Yes. Deep brown/red color in fall and winter. Seed heads turn frizzy in autumn/winter and act as bird food. 

Host Plant for Caterpillars?

Yes. Gayfeather is a host plant to four lepidoptera.  Glorious Flower Moth, Three-lined Flower Moth, Wavy-lined Emerald Moth, and Blazing Star Borer Moth are all hosted by Liatris spicata.

Other Known Ecological Value?

Yes.  The leaves are often visited by pollinators including bumblebees and hoverflies. Seeds provide food for many different birds. 

Origin of Name:  Spiky shape of flower.

Related Plant Species:   Liatris spicata has over 40 related species. Liatris spicata spread much less than their relative Liatris punctata (Texas gayfeather). It's relative Garberia heterophylla grows in a bush formation. 

Use For Food/Medicine:

It can be used as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. 

“Liatris Spicata, a Gayfeather for Common Home Pollinator Gardens.” Rainbow Gardens, 31 March 2022, Accessed 13 September 2024 https://www.rainbowgardens.biz/annuals-and-perennials/gayfeather-liatris-spicata-pollinators-perennial/ Accessed 13 September 2024.

“Native Plant: Liatris' spiky elegance stands out.” The Columbus Dispatch, 8 July 2018, Accessed 16 September 2024. https://www.dispatch.com/story/lifestyle/home-garden/2018/07/08/native-plant-liatris-spiky-elegance/11573940007/

Nolan, Tara. “Growing Liatris Spicata: A Hardy Perennial With 4-Season Interest.” Savvy Gardening, Accessed 15 September 2024. https://savvygardening.com/liatris/

Wheeler, Justin. “Plants for Pollinators: Blazingstar.” Xerces Society, 9 August 2017, Accessed 16 September 2024. https://www.xerces.org/blog/plants-for-pollinators-blazingstar

Last edited by Riley Richardson, September 2024.