Liatris spicata ~ Marsh Blazing Star, Gayfeather size-1qt-pot Fairfax County

Fairfax County

The fall color contrasts nicely with the huge 9” carmine red flowers with a prominent yellow tubular stamen that bloom mid-summer until the first frost attracting butterflies

and mildew

Kleims Hardy Gardenia--more blooms

IMAGES: Photo by David J

Liatris spicata ~ Marsh Blazing Star, Gayfeather size-1qt-pot Fairfax CountyMarsh Blazing Star is an upright clumping native perennial with basal tufts of narrow grass like medium green foliage. Sturdy stalks rise in summer with fluffy purple disk flowers in summer. Grows best in full sun and moist fertile soils. Drought and heat tolerant. Liatris spicata is a host plant for 4 species: the rare Glorious Flower Moth, and the Painted Lady, Painted Indian butterfly, and Silvery Checkerspot butterfly. Attracts various bees and