Liatris pycnostachya (Asteraceae)                                           

An erect perennial herb, native to the Midwestern United States, with flowers arranged on a thick spike. The purple to lilac flowers begin to open from the terminal end of the spike and slowly descend toward the base. Prefers well drained, gravelly or sandy soils, and must have full sun for best results. Be patient, usually requires two to three years to become established from seed.

Suggested use: As an accent along fence lines, open fields, roadsides.
Miscellaneous: Liatris is extensively used in the cut flower industry. When dried holds its color for long periods of time. The bulb of the plant can be transplanted for first year blooms.

Average Planting Success: 50%