Meadow Blazing Star

Meadow Blazing Star (Liatris ligulistylis)

Meadow Blazing Star (Liatris ligulistylis) is a tall, native perennial prized for its airy spikes of lavender-pink flowers and strong attraction to monarch butterflies. Ideal for prairie plantings, pollinator gardens, and naturalized landscapes, it adds vertical interest, ecological value, and drought-tolerant beauty to sunny spaces.

Distinctive Features

This variety features tall, slender spikes of fluffy, lavender-pink flowers that bloom from top to bottom in mid to late summer. Known for being a magnet for monarch butterflies, it also attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators. The narrow, lance-shaped foliage forms an upright clump, providing texture even when not in bloom.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil but tolerates poor soil conditions.
• Water: Requires low to moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9.

Ideal Uses

• Prairie Plantings: Excellent for naturalized and wildflower gardens.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts monarch butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
• Borders: Adds vertical interest and texture to sunny borders.
• Cut Flower Gardens: Ideal for fresh or dried arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; reduce frequency once established.
• Pruning: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage reblooming.
• Fertilizing: Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring.
• Winter Care: Cut back dead foliage in late fall or early spring.

Why Choose Meadow Blazing Star?

• Lavender-Pink Blooms: Adds delicate color and attracts monarch butterflies.
• Pollinator Magnet: Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives in poor soils and dry conditions.
• Vertical Texture: Provides height and movement in the landscape.

For monarch-friendly beauty, vertical interest, and low-maintenance care, Meadow Blazing Star (Liatris ligulistylis) is an excellent choice for prairie plantings, pollinator gardens, and naturalized landscapes.