Botanical Name: Liatris spicata 'Kobold'
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Common Name: Kobold Gayfeather or Blazing Star  
Plant photo of: Liatris spicata 'Kobold'
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Water Saving Tip:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.

Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Perennial

 

Height Range

1-3'

 

Flower Color

Lavender, Purple

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Dark Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

Low, Medium

 

Growth Rate

Slow

 

Soil Type

Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Shrub Border, Patio, Walls / Fences

 

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Small Spaces

 

Attracts Wildlife

Hummingbirds, Butterflies

Information by: Stephanie Duer
Photographer:

  • Description

  • Notes

A selection of L. spicata, 'Kobold' is a favorite of the florist trade, loved for its brilliant magenta to violet flower spires, erect habit, and long bloom, mid to late summer. It provides valuable vertical interest in a perennial border, and it also blends well with ornamental grasses. A great cut flower, it also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It grows about 18 to 30 inches tall and 8 to 12 inches wide.
Grows in most soils, even clay, as long as it is well draining. Plant in full sun. Tolerates dry soils, though L spicata is more tolerant of moisture than other liatris (this does not mean it will stand being over watered, either). Deep rooted and long-lived, it generally doesn't require dividing. Can experience stress when over-watered, becoming susceptible to aphids and mildew. Also commonly called blazing star.