Perennial
Blazing Star
Liatris spicata
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
PurpleLiatris spicataSavannahLiatris spicataSpi KoboldLiatris spicata
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size3-5 feet × 1-2 feet
About Blazing Star
Blazing Star (Liatris spicata) is a native North American perennial that sends up tall, dense wands of feathery rose-purple flowers that open from the top of the spike downward — the opposite of most flowering spikes. It grows from a corm, produces grass-like basal foliage, and is a magnet for butterflies and bees. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- White, Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Plant Blazing Star in full sun for best performance. In NE Florida, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight is required; plants in shade will be short-lived and floppy.
Water
Water regularly during establishment to develop a strong root system. Once established, Blazing Star is fairly drought tolerant; NE Florida's summer rains usually provide adequate moisture. Avoid overwatering, as wet soil causes rot.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grows best in well-drained, sandy soil — NE Florida's native sandy soils are ideal. Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer before new growth in spring; avoid over-fertilizing as excess nutrients cause flower spikes to flop.
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Common questions
Is Blazing Star a good plant for St. Augustine?
Blazing Star is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-5 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.