Gayfeather

Liatris spicata

Dense Blazing Star is one of the top five native perennials for monarch butterfly migration. The tall, densely flowered purple-rose spikes bloom in late summer precisely when monarchs are moving south, and a patch in full bloom will have butterflies working it for hours on a warm September afternoon. Goldfinches follow in October and November, pulling seeds from the dried heads with acrobatic efficiency. It grows from a corm and is remarkably adaptable. tolerating both moist and average garden soils and performing well in most full-sun positions. The upright habit works in formal borders and naturalistic plantings alike. Plant in groups of five or more for the best visual effect and maximum monarch attraction. One of the most reliably beautiful and ecologically important natives for the mid-Atlantic garden.