Liatris squarrosa
Button Blazing Star or Colic Root
Deep green, shiny, leathery foliage with unique button flowers in late summer, outrageous texture! A real hit at our open house in the end of July. Differs from others in the foliage being thinner and flower stalks are shorter, usually 4-5 flower heads. A typical plant yields an upright, robust, multibranched form. Typical bright purple Liatris color. Our plants come from our friend Mary Painter of Virginia Natives Nursery, where it is from a local population. Spectacular and inviting plant especially to our nectar loving friends butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.
Height24-30 Inches |
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Spread12-15 Inches |
Bloom Color
PurpleUSDA Hardiness Zone 5-8
Interesting Notes
Liatris squarrosa (Earl's blazing star) offers large, tuftlike red-violet flowers on one- to two-foot stems from early to late summer. Whereas most Liatris flower heads blend together, the blossoms on this species are individually distinct, making it a great choice for flower arrangements. It grows wild from Virginia west to Colorado and south to Florida and Texas. (species info too) Brooklyn Botanic GardenThis plant variety can be successfully grown in areas where the soil quality is of a poor standard, ie lacking in sufficient nutrients. This plant variety does not tolerate heavy clay soils. It is best suited grown in a light to a medium soil mixture. Plants for a Future
The species name squarrosa is in reference to the spreading tips of the involucral bracts. KSU
Growing and Maintenance Tips
Needs good drainage, but is tolerant of harsh growing conditions such as poor soil, heat, humidity and drought. Propagate by seed or divide tubers in spring or fall. Best used as a border in perennial and cutting gardens or naturalized areas.Characteristics & Attributes
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