Liatris spicata 'Kobold'

Dense Blazing Star

Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’ (Blazing Star / Gayfeather) is a compact, upright perennial with a clumping habit, featuring narrow, grass-like green foliage and dense spikes of vibrant rosy-purple flowers that bloom from top to bottom in mid to late summer. This dwarf selection is valued for its strong vertical form, pollinator appeal, and suitability for smaller garden spaces.

Type: Perennial
Mature Size: 12–18" W × 18–24" H
USDA Zones: 3a–9b
Form: Upright, clumping

Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Well-drained soils; low to moderate water, drought tolerant once established
Bloom Time / Length: Mid to late summer; long-lasting (3–5 weeks)

Wildlife: Bees, butterflies

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for borders, mass plantings, prairie gardens, and pollinator plantings. Its vertical flower spikes add height and contrast among mounded perennials. Great for cut flowers, both fresh and dried.

Care:
Deadhead to extend bloom and maintain appearance, or leave seed heads for winter interest. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate wet winter conditions.

Plant type

Perennial

Height

18-24''

Width

12-18"

Hardiness zones

3–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer, Summer

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Well Drained

Landscape use

Border, Mass Planting

Shape

Clumping, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No