Contents
Description
Liatris Spicata Alba is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as White Blazing Star or White Gayfeather. The plant is native to eastern and central North America and can grow up to a height of 3-4 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Liatris |
Appearance
The White Blazing Star has narrow leaves that are about a foot long and grow in a basal rosette. The flowers are white and grow on long, vertical stems that are covered in small, green leaves. The flowers bloom in mid-summer and last for several weeks. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Care Guide
Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0-7.5.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun.
Hardiness Zones: The White Blazing Star is hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The White Blazing Star is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
Habitat
The White Blazing Star is native to eastern and central North America, and it can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woods.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the White Blazing Star a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the White Blazing Star is a great plant for attracting butterflies and bees.
Q: Can the White Blazing Star grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as it has enough room to grow.
Q: Is the White Blazing Star deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: When is the best time to plant the White Blazing Star?
A: The best time to plant the White Blazing Star is in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Liatris Pycnostachya
- Liatris Aspera
- Liatris Ligulistylis
- Liatris Spicata
References
- “Liatris Spicata Alba.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281977. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
- “Liatris Spicata Alba.” PlantFiles, www.plantfiles.com/plant/ Liatris_spicata_alba. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
- Brown, Lauren, and Stephanie Cohen. The Nonstop Garden: A Step-by-Step Guide to Smart Plant Choices and Four-Season Designs. Timber Press, 2010.
