The button-like flowers of this upright perennial are a favorite of the endangered monarch butterfly during its migration south, and other pollinators also appreciate the late-summer nectar. The fluffy, purple spikes stand up to 4 feet tall amidst clumps of grass-like foliage. Meadow blazing star is found in moist prairies and meadows with full sun, so it's an ideal addition to rain gardens and areas that get a little extra moisture. Plant it next to grasses or taller perennials to help support the stems.
The specific epithet ligulistylis comes from the Latin word ligula, meaning “a strap.” Other common names include showy blazing star, northern plains blazing star, and Rocky Mountain blazing star.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 2-4' tall and 1-2' wide.
Prefers full or part sun.
Prefers moist to average, loamy soils. Avoid dry, sandy soils. Doesn't tolerate drought.
Wildlife Value:
Visitors include great spangled fritillary, regal fritillary, common wood nymph, red admiral, painted lady, and monarch butterflies; hummingbird clearwing moths; peck’s skipper; and hummingbirds. Leafcutter, bumble, and green sweat bees and syrphid flies and bee flies all feed on the nectar and pollen.
Rabbits, deer, and groundhogs eat the leaves, corms (roots), and stems. Finches and other birds feast on the seeds during winter.
Medicinal, Edible, and Other Uses:
Resources:
Johnson's Nursery: https://kb.jniplants.com/showy-blazing-star-liatris-ligulistylis
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