Liatris, Meadow Blazing Star

Meadow Blazing Star (Liatris ligulistylis)

Meadow Blazing Star is a stunning native perennial known for its tall, spiky blooms of vibrant purple that appear in late summer. A favorite among pollinators, particularly Monarch butterflies, this plant is perfect for sunny borders, meadows, and pollinator gardens. Its long-lasting flowers and low-maintenance nature make it a valuable addition to any landscape, providing ecological benefits while adding vertical interest.

Key Characteristics

• Pollinator favorite: Meadow Blazing Star is a magnet for Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) and other pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds. Its nectar-rich flowers are a critical food source for Monarchs during their migration in late summer and early fall.

• Ideal for sunny meadows and borders: This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it perfect for meadows, prairies, or along borders. Its tall, slender spikes add height and color to the landscape.

• Supports biodiversity: Beyond butterflies, Meadow Blazing Star provides nectar for a wide range of pollinators and seeds for birds like finches. It plays an important role in supporting biodiversity in naturalized and pollinator-friendly gardens.

• Low maintenance and drought-tolerant: Once established, this hardy perennial is drought-tolerant and requires little care. It’s an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens where beauty and ecological impact go hand in hand.

Product Details

• Native range: Central and Eastern North America
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Prefers medium to dry, well-drained soils
• Mature height: 3 to 5 feet
• Bloom time: July to September
• Bloom color: Vibrant purple
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3-8

Meadow Blazing Star is a fantastic choice for gardeners who want to support pollinators, especially Monarch butterflies, while adding striking vertical color to their landscape. Its low-maintenance nature and ecological benefits make it a perfect addition to pollinator gardens, meadows, and sunny borders.