Description
Liatris is a perennial of the aster family from North America. It reaches 50–75 cm in height. Its ornament is the numerous flowers gathered in dense, long spikes 15 to 30 cm long. The flower heads are lilac-pink, violet or white, depending on the variety, and open from the top downwards – the buds at the tip of the spike open first. Liatris flowers from July to the end of September. The dark green leaves form compact clumps. The flowers are popular with butterflies, and Liatris is a good source of nectar.
The best-known varieties include 'Kobold', with violet flowers, growing to 30 cm; 'Floristan Violett', with light violet flowers; and 'Floristan Weiss', with white flowers, growing up to 100 cm.
Requirements
Liatris is a tough, undemanding plant.
Propagation
It is propagated in spring by division or from seed.
Care
It forms tuberous roots, which unfortunately are a favourite food of rodents. To grow well it needs fertile, free-draining soil and a sunny, not too moist position. For abundant flowering, feed it in spring.