Family: Asteraceae
Author: (L.) Michx.
Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 92 (1803)
Year: 1803
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Liatris
Vegetable: False
Observations: NC. & E. U.S.A.
Description
The Scaly Blazing Star, known scientifically as Liatris squarrosa, is a fascinating species within the Asteraceae family. This perennial plant is part of the rich tapestry of flora that populates the North-Central and Eastern regions of the United States.
First described in 1803 and cataloged in the “Flora Boreali-Americana,” Liatris squarrosa has intrigued botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. The author responsible for its scientific classification, referred to by the abbreviation (L.) Michx., lends a historical touch to the study of this species, grounding it in early American botanical exploration.
Thriving in its native environment, the Scaly Blazing Star is distinguished by its signature appearance. The name “squarrosa” hints at the unique scaly texture of its involucral bracts, which adds a distinctive characteristic to its overall structure. This visually striking feature not only serves to identify the plant but also highlights its adaptation to the local ecosystems where it naturally occurs.
Belonging to the diverse and widespread Asteraceae family, Liatris squarrosa is related to a large group of flowering plants known collectively as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family. This family is well-regarded for its ecological significance and the variety of species it includes, many of which share common traits such as composite flower heads and multiple florets grouped together to form a single, larger bloom.
Not only does the Scaly Blazing Star contribute to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits, but it also plays an essential role in local ecosystems. It attracts various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects, thus supporting the health and sustainability of its environment. The presence of Liatris squarrosa in natural habitats underscores the intricate web of life where each species, no matter how small or seemingly inconspicuous, maintains the balance that makes these ecosystems thrive.
In summary, Liatris squarrosa, or the Scaly Blazing Star, is a notable member of the Asteraceae family that stands out due to its distinct characteristics and historical botanical significance. Flourishing in the North-Central and Eastern United States, this perennial plant contributes to the ecological vibrancy and aesthetic beauty of its native landscapes.
Common Names
Eng: scaly blazing star
En: Scaly blazing star
Synonyms
- Liatris squarrosa f. alba (R.A.Evers & Thieret)
- Liatris hirsutiflora (Kostel.)
- Liatris glabrata var. alabamensis ((Alexander ex Small) Shinners)
- Liatris uniflora (Raf.)
- Lacinaria squarrosa var. alabamensis (Alexander ex Small)
- Lacinaria squarrosa (Hill)
- Serratula squarrosa (L.)
- Liatris squarrosa var. luxurians (Hook.)
- Vernonia hirsutiflora (Poir.)
- Liatris squarrosa var. typica (Gaiser)
- Liatris squarrosa var. alabemensis ((Alexander ex Small) Gaiser)
- Liatris squarrosa var. floribunda (Torr. & A.Gray)
- Liatris squarrosa var. gracilenta (Gaiser)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Delaware (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Missouri (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 14, 2020 by Cynthia Brinkley (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 9, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 11, 2012 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 11, 2012 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 9, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Jul 11, 2012 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 9, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 12, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3104295)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30045635-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Liatris squarrosa (L.) Michx.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb