Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’ (Blazing Star)

Prized for its fluffy wands of bright, rosy lavender flowers, Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’ (Blazing Star) is a compact, clump-forming perennial of excellent ornamental value. Flowering in succession from top to bottom over several weeks, the tufted flower heads contrast nicely with the finely textured, grassy foliage. Attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, this beautiful native American enjoys a long season of interest from mid-summer to fall and supplies winter bird food. The narrow, opposite leaves stay attractive all summer and turn a rich bronze in fall. Easy to grow and low care, Liatris spicata adds a strong vertical accent in sunny borders or prairie gardens. It helps create outstanding combinations with the warm golds of black-eyed Susans or the purple blossoms of coneflowers.

• Grows up to 18-30 in. tall (45-75 cm) and 12-16 in. wide (30-40 cm).
• Thrives in full sun and prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soils. Tolerates heat, cold, drought, and poor soils. Plants may rot over winter if grown in heavy soil.
• Virtually disease-free. Keep an eye out for slugs, snails, and mice. This plant is deer-resistant.
• An excellent choice for perennial borders, cottage gardens, native plant gardens, prairies, and meadows. Great as fresh cut flowers or in dried arrangements.
• Cut back to the basal leaves after flowering.
• Propagate by seed in autumn: divide in spring.