How to Grow Blazing Star, Liatris Flowering Plants
Whether you know this flowering plant as Liatris or Blazing Star, you'll
enjoy its' stately appearance. And, it's an easy to grow perennial.
Liatris is native to America east of the Rocky Mountains. The Liatris plant
grows one to five feet tall, depending upon which of a couple dozen
varieties you have, and the growing conditions. It produces tall spikes with
bright purple flowers. Unlike most other spiked flowers, Liatris flowers
bloom beginning from the top, progressing down the spike. The leaves
are green and finely textured, turning a showy bronze in the Fall.
Liatris is good for cut flowers, fresh or dried.
Other Names: This flowering plant is also known as: Gayfeather, Colic
Root and Button Snake Root
Medicinal Use: Liatris was used as an old fashioned antispasmodic
remedy for the intestines.
Propagation:
Liatris, or Blazing Star, are grown from Corms or Rhizomes (depending upon
the variety). After a few years, the clumps need to be dug up, and separated.
Liatris can also be grown from seeds. If grown from seeds, they will bloom
the second year after planting them.
How to Grow Liatris Plants:
Growing Liatris plants is easy. They prefer full sun, but will tolerate partial,
light shade.
Liatris plants like rich, moist soil that is well draining. However, they
will tolerate varying soil conditions and fertility. It is most important
that the soil is not wet or soggy for extended periods of time, as the roots
will rot.
Space plants 12" - 15" apart.
Water plants only if the soil is dry down a few inches. Add a layer of mulch
to keep the weeds down, and your Liatris will grow almost maintenance free.
Add a general purpose fertilizer after the blooming period.
Divide and separate...... After a few years, the clumps of flowers need to
be separated. Dig them up. Separate the Rhizomes, using a sharp knife. Make
sure at least one "eye" is on each segment. Replant the rhizomes, spacing
them 12"- 15" apart.
Insects and Disease:
You should experience few insect problems with your Liatris. Occasionally,
leaf spot disease and powdery mildew can pose a problem.
Importantly, the roots will rot in soggy, wet soils, Avoid planting
them in low areas, with poor drainage.
More Information:
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