Commercial Floriculture

Propagation

1. SEEDS
Liatris can be grown through seeds.

By collecting the seeds once they have matured, in late summer to early fall and sowing into flats.

The plots can be left outdoors throughout winter and

The seeds will germinate once the temperature and soil begins warming in the spring.

This plant can also be allowed to self sow in open areas of the garden for a pleasant surprise later in the growing season once they begin blooming.

2. TUBEROUS CORMS
The tuberous corms of older Liatris plants can also be dug up and divided in late winter while the plant is dormant.

3. Rough blazing star (L. aspera)
This species is native to much of the eastern, mid-western, and southern states.

This Liatris species are rounded, fluffy, deep rose-purple flower heads that open around the same time, making it a particularly good fresh cut flower for floral arrangements.

Grows 3-5 feet high and bears lovely lavender flowers in late summer and early autumn.

Because of its height, the plant may require staking.

Blooms later than most other Liatris species and is distinguished from other species by its rough-looking appearance.

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4. Dotted blazing star (L. punctata)
Derived its name from the tiny dots on the leaves of this species.

This is also known as button snakeroot and some Native Americans called it crow root, because crows were observed eating the roots in the fall.

This Liatris species is native throughout Kansas and produces a tap root reaching a depth of 15 feet, making it extremely drought-resistant.

The Kiowa Indians bake the roots over a fire and eat them; while the Blackfoot Indians boils the roots and will apply it to swellings or ingest it to alleviate stomach ailments.

The large purple flower heads of meadow blazing star (L. ligulistylis) produce as many as 70 blossoms on its 3-4 foot stems in late summer.

This species is commonly seen in prairie habitats or along roadsides and emits a specific odor that attracts monarch butterflies.

Liatris is seldom bothered by pests or disease; however, young liatris plants are susceptible to rodents, which will eat the buds, seedlings, and tuberous roots.

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