Overview
Liatris spicata is a tufted herbaceous perennial in the genus Liatris, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Liatris spicata grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include prairie planting, wildlife gardens, coastal and cottage and informal garden. It is native to E North America.
About
This perennial reaches heights of up to 70 cm, featuring slender leaves and elongated flower spikes that display a purplish-pink hue in late summer and early autumn.
About the genus
Liatris consists of herbaceous perennials characterized by their slender, grass-like leaves and upright flower spikes resembling bottlebrushes, with blooms that emerge from the top and progress downward.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Liatris
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Liatris spicata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- E North America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Liatris spicata
- Cultivation
- Grow in light, moderately fertile soil that is reliably moist but not wet overwinter; full sun is essential
- Pruning
- Deadhead regularly then cut stems down to the ground in winter
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn. Propagate by division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Liatris spicata?
Grow in light, moderately fertile soil that is reliably moist but not wet overwinter; full sun is essential.
Where is the best place to plant Liatris spicata?
Liatris spicata prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Liatris spicata need?
Liatris spicata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Liatris spicata?
Deadhead regularly then cut stems down to the ground in winter.
How big does Liatris spicata grow?
Liatris spicata reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Liatris spicata hardy in the UK?
Liatris spicata has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Liatris spicata?
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn. Propagate by division in spring.
Is Liatris spicata good for pollinators?
Yes — Liatris spicata attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.