Rough Blazing Star (Liatris aspera)

Rough Blazing Star

Liatris aspera

Rough Blazing Star is a hardy perennial reaching 1 to 4 feet in height, thriving in dry prairies, open woodlands, and sandy or rocky soils. Its dense, spiky purple flowers bloom from late summer into fall, attracting a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees. This drought-tolerant species is well-suited for native plant gardens, prairie restorations, and erosion control projects. It has historical medicinal uses by Indigenous groups for treating digestive and respiratory ailments.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	40
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Bloom month(s)	July, August, September
Bloom Color or Type	Violet
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.