Savanna Blazing Star - Liatris scariosa var. nieuwlandii

Also called Northern Blazing Star

Features: Does not compete well with prairie grasses, so it grows in partial shade in savannas less favorable to prairie grasses. It is found in high quality natural areas and is quite rare in the state, so take good care of it!

The purple flowers are thistle-like and grow in columned bunches that can extend up to 18” of the overall plant stem. Flowers attract Monarch butterflies and moth caterpillars and bloom from the top of the plant toward the bottom, so they may fall over unless tied to a stake.

The foliage can be quite appetizing to deer, cattle, and rabbits, especially in the early years, so keep them protected until they are established.

Light: Sun to partial shade

Soil: Medium, medium-dry, dry, loamy, sandy, gravelly

Native habitat: Prairies, savannas

Height: 2.5 ft - 5 ft

Blooms: Mid-summer to Autumn, blooms for about 6 weeks

See more information and photos at: Illinois Wildflowers and USDA Plants Database