Liatris

Family Asteraceae. Name: the origin of the name is unknown.

The genus comprises more than 20 species native to North America.

Plants are perennial, rhizomatous, herbaceous with simple or branched, erect, densely leaved stems. Leaves are arranged alternately, sometimes in whorls, linear, pointed. Flowers in the flower heads are tubular, violet-purple or reddish-purple, rarely white. Heads are small, gathered into racemose or spike-like inflorescences up to 50 cm long. Blooms in July. Achenes are oblong, ribbed, covered with hairs.

Because of the elongated, upward flower stalk this species is rarely used to ornament flower beds. Nevertheless, in combination with plants that have looser and more lacy inflorescences it looks remarkable. Liatris is a decoration of field-grass compositions. This is greatly aided by its long narrow leaves that sheath the stem. Unlike most other plants, flowering begins at the top of the inflorescence and spreads downward.

Liatris is rather difficult to use for making bouquets. Nevertheless it is an excellent cut flower, as its shoots stand in water with dissolved fertilizers for more than two weeks. When purchasing clumps, choose those that have already begun to bloom.

Location: grows well in a sunny, warm or hot position.

Soil: moderately dry, fresh, loose, rich in nutrients. On heavy, wet soils the plant rots.

Care: treat the clump in spring. Fertilize the soil well. Cut off the inflorescences after flowering. The rhizome is often gnawed by mice. Hardy without shelter, it is damaged only in severe snowless winters.

Propagation: by dividing the clump and by seeds. There are no difficulties with seed germination and raising seedlings. Seedlings bloom in the third year. Division is recommended every 3 years. With proper care even small divisions flower in the first year. Transplanting is tolerated without damage at any time during the growing season.

Uses: for group and border plantings. Unusual as a cut flower, suitable for forcing.

Companions: combines well with anaphalis, gypsophila, and tall sedums