Contents
Description
Liatris Pilosa, commonly known as the Shaggy Blazing Star, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America, specifically to the central and eastern regions of the United States. Liatris Pilosa typically grows up to 2-3 feet tall and has a spread of around 1-2 feet. It blooms from July to September, producing small, pink to lavender-colored flowers that are arranged in dense spikes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Liatris |
Appearance
Liatris Pilosa has an upright growth habit with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are hairy and up to 6 inches long. The stem of this plant is also hairy and produces clusters of small flowers in a spike-like arrangement. The flowers are pink to lavender-colored, and each spike can have dozens of individual flowers. The flowers bloom from the top down, giving the spike a fuzzy appearance. The plant’s overall appearance is bushy and compact, making it an attractive addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Liatris Pilosa is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips to ensure that your plant thrives:- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and doesn’t like to be overwatered. Water it once a week or whenever the top inch of soil is dry.- Fertilization: Liatris Pilosa doesn’t require much fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, but avoid fertilizing in the fall.- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. If you have heavy clay soil, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Liatris Pilosa prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Liatris Pilosa is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common problems to watch out for:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves and stems of the plant, causing a white, powdery coating. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause stippling and discoloration on the leaves. To get rid of spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.- Aphids: These tiny, pear-shaped insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing distortion and yellowing. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Liatris Pilosa is native to North America and can be found in open woods, meadows, and prairies. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Liatris Pilosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Liatris Pilosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should Liatris Pilosa be fertilized?
A: This plant doesn’t require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, but avoid fertilizing in the fall.
Q: Can Liatris Pilosa tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant once established.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Liatris Pilosa:- Liatris Spicata- Liatris Ligulistylis- Liatris Aspera- Liatris Pycnostachya
References
– “Liatris Pilosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282018&isprofile=1&basic=liatris%20pilosa- “Liatris Pilosa.” Illinois Wildflowers. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/shaggy_blazing_star.html- “Liatris Pilosa.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/liatris-pilosa/
