Cylindric Blazing Star (Liatris cylindracea)

Cylindric Blazing Star

Liatris cylindracea

Cylindric Blazing Star is a perennial usually growing between 1 and 2 feet tall. Found in dry, sandy, or rocky prairies, it produces loose spikes of lavender flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. Cylindric Blazing Star is the most limited species of the five Minnesota native Liatris, having the most compact range and frequency, being most abundant in the SE part of the state. This species is particularly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. Its compact size makes it ideal for rock gardens, native wildflower plantings, and habitat restorations.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry
Average Max Height (inches)	22
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	15
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.