About
Liatris pycnostachya, the Kansas gayfeather, is an upright, clump-forming, short-lived perennial to 1.5 m with basal tufts of narrow, lance-shaped, dark-green leaves and, in summer, tall spikes of feathery, purple-pink flowerheads opening from the top of the spike downwards. A bold and ornamental prairie perennial for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Liatris, the gayfeathers or blazing stars, are herbaceous perennials from North America with narrow, grass-like foliage and erect, bottlebrush-like spikes of fluffy, purple-pink or white flowers, which open from the top of the spike downwards. Excellent border plants for a sunny, well-drained position.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
Native toC and E USA
Care notes
CultivationGrow in light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil that is not wet overwinter; full sun is essential
PruningDeadhead regularly then cut stems down to the ground in winter
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free