Species Dotted Blazing Star

Dotted Blazing Star

Liatris punctata

Dotted Blazing Star (Liatris punctata) is a perennial flower with clusters of purple to red-violet blooms that bloom throughout early to mid-summer. It has rich green leaves and sturdy stems that can reach heights of up to 4 ft. It is a drought-tolerant plant that has moderate water requirements, but appreciates occasional deep watering. It thrives in full to partial sun and a wide range of soil types. Squirrels, bees, and butterflies are attracted to its showy blooms. Its periodic re-seeding ensures that it remains plentiful and a highlight in many lots and gardens.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Root Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

Full sun Partial sun

Soil:

Sandy,Loamy,Rocky

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Dotted Blazing Star (Liatris punctata) should be watered once a week throughout the growing season. A good soak of 1-2 inches of water is recommended to ensure the plant's root system is saturated. The soil should be allowed to dry out before the next watering to avoid over-watering. During periods of intense heat or drought, the soil should be kept slightly moist to ensure the plant does not dry out or suffer from stress. Once the Dotted Blazing Star has gone dormant during the late Summer/Fall, watering can be reduced or stopped completely.

sunlight

Dotted Blazing Star (Liatris punctata) grows best when it receives full or partial sunlight for 6-8 hours a day. This could be in the form of direct sunlight or in the form of bright, indirect natural light. If direct sunlight is not available, providing bright, indirect light is the next best option. Also, if the plant is grown indoors, it should be in a spot with bright, natural light, either in a south-facing window or near an outdoor window. If these requirements of light for this plant species are not met, the plant may become weak, and its growth will be adversely affected.

pruning

When pruning Dotted Blazing Star (Liatris punctata), it should be done shortly after the plant has finished blooming. Blooming typically occurs in late summer or early fall, so wait about 1-2 weeks after blooming ends before pruning. Pruning should involve cutting off only the flowers and seed heads, and not the entire stem. Cut the flower stems down to a couple of inches above the soil line. This will help to inhibit the reoccurrence of the flowers in the spring, as well as promote new branch growth, and will keep the plant looking neat and tidy. It can also help to encourage bushier growth.