Prairie blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya, Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 91 (1803))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Michx.

Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 91 (1803)

Year: 1803

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Liatris

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & E. U.S.A.

Description

Prairie blazingstar, scientifically known as Liatris pycnostachya, is a striking and vibrant member of the Asteraceae family. This perennial plant stands out in meadows and prairies across the central and eastern regions of the United States, where it has been a notable part of the native flora.

The slender, erect stems of the Prairie blazingstar can reach impressive heights, often growing between 2 to 4 feet tall. The plant is adorned with narrow, grass-like leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem, tapering towards the tip. These leaves contribute to its striking, architectural presence in the landscape.

Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, Prairie blazingstar produces dense, cylindrical spikes of bright purple to lavender flowers. These spikes can be up to 2 feet long, creating a visually stunning display that attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Each individual flowerhead is composed of numerous tiny disc florets, which collectively form the enchanting inflorescence characteristic of this species.

Liatris pycnostachya thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a resilient addition to both wild and cultivated gardens. It is often used in native plant gardens and prairie restorations due to its ability to withstand drought and poor soil conditions. Furthermore, its striking appearance and ecological benefits make it a favorite among gardeners and conservationists alike.

First documented in the early 19th century, Prairie blazingstar has been appreciated not only for its ornamental value but also for its role in supporting local ecosystems. Its deep root system helps prevent soil erosion, while its flowers provide essential nectar and pollen sources for pollinators.

In summary, the Prairie blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya) is a cherished native plant that offers both aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits. Its tall, flower-laden spikes and resilience to various environmental conditions make it an enduring symbol of the American prairies and a valuable addition to conservation efforts and garden landscapes.

Common Names

Eng: button snakeroot, cattail gayfeather, prairie blazing star, prairie blazingstar, prairie gayfeather, thick-spike gayfeather, prairie blazing-star, kansas gay feather, kansas gayfeather, thick-spike blazing-star
Deu: prärie-prachtscharte
Swe: blek rosenstav
Fra: liatris à épi dense
En: Prairie blazingstar, Prairie gayfeather, Thick-spike gayfeather, Cattail gayfeather, Button snakeroot, Prairie blazing star, Prairie blazing-star, Kansas gay feather, Kansas gayfeather, Thick-spike blazing-star
Fr: Liatris à épi dense
De: Prärie-Prachtscharte
Sv: Blek rosenstav

Synonyms

Distribution

• Arkansas (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Texas (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Sep 8, 2013 by EOL − Brian-Sean Early (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 13, 2013 by EOL − Daniel Carter (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 5, 2022 by ju lou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 5, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 9, 2019 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 17, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 5, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by Brandon (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by Brandon (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 13, 2020 by Catherine Mason (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by gina Bo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 10, 2019 by Erwin Willems (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2019 by Michalina Kaszuba (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2021 by Lynda Acosta (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 12, 2021 by hakan1 (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Oct 23, 2021 by Ha Anna (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• WFO (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3104293)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:230623-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Liatris pycnostachya Michx.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Multiple Stem

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Slow

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.8

Ph minimum: 6.0