Liatris microcephala, also known as smallhead blazing star, is a compact and drought tolerant perennial with fine, grass like foliage and vivid purple pink flower spikes. Great choice for adding vertical interest and attracting pollinators.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Prefers dry, well drained, sandy or rocky soils
Watering Needs: Low; highly drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Native to the southeastern United States, particularly the Appalachian and Piedmont regions, where it thrives in rocky outcrops and dry slopes.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and Eastern Tiger Swallowtails with its nectar rich upright blooms.
Bees
- Visited by native bumblebees and long tongued bees that forage for nectar along the flower spikes.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports predatory wasps and other pollinators that contribute to ecological balance in meadow plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow airflow and maintain clump form while showcasing vertical flowers.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for rock gardens, dry borders, native prairie plantings, or naturalized slopes where drought tolerance and pollinator support are key.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Bold purple flowers and sturdy stems match the resilience and seasonality of Liatris.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Fine textured grass complements Liatris foliage and supports biodiversity.
- Coreopsis lanceolata (Lanceleaf Coreopsis) - Sunny yellow blooms contrast beautifully with purple spikes and thrive in dry soil.
- Gaillardia pulchella (Blanket Flower) - Spreading habit and warm tones offer a cheerful base in dry landscapes.
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Orange blooms and similar habitat needs create a pollinator haven with visual contrast.