Dense Blazing Star

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-5 Feet

Mature Spread

1-2 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

The Dense Blazing Star is easy to care for and makes a stunning addition to an outdoor space. Tiny, pinkish-purple, star-shaped flowers grow along tall stems or spikes. The feathery texture of the petals creates a unique look. The flowers bloom from summer until early fall. Also known as Liatris spicata, this plant has thin, green foliage that grows from the central stems.

The Dense Blazing Star hails from North America, making it a good choice for native gardens or gardeners who want a big impact without much work. Plant this Liatris along a foundation wall or near the back of a bed, so the tall stems don’t block smaller plants. Butterflies and bees frequent the flowers to eat the nectar, but deer tend to leave these plants alone. Grow Dense Blazing Star in USDA zones 3 through 8.

Dense Blazing Star Care

Full sun is a must for Dense Blazing Star to thrive. Plant it in acidic to neutral soil that drains well. Dense Blazing Star can live in soil with varying degrees of fertility, but rich soil will support rapid growth. This Liatris is not a heavy feeder, but plants grown in nutrient-poor soil will benefit from a dose of balanced fertilizer in the spring. Water it consistently during the spring; once growth appears, the plant will need approximately one inch of water per week.

Dense Blazing Star is an herbaceous perennial, which means this plant will put on height quickly. The flower spikes can become lanky, so stake the plant if the stems become floppy. Cut back growth in the fall or late winter.

Dense Blazing Star Spacing

The tall flower spikes of Dense Blazing Star reach 3 to 5 feet tall, and this beauty spreads 18 to 24 inches wide. Space this beauty 15 inches apart to create a dense mass planting.