Dotted Blazing Star
Dotted blazing star is a native plant that grows naturally on the Great Plains. It is an upright plant with one to several stems that arise from a central crown.
In late summer, dense purple flower spikes adorn the plant. The flower clusters bloom over a period of time, starting at the top and progressing downward.
Dotted blazing star gets its name from the light-colored glandular dots that occur on the narrow, dark green leaves. Because it's adapted to the central prairies, it can grow well in landscapes with dry, sandy soils. It can also blend well with native grasses in a prairie-style landscape.
Dotted Blazing Star
Dotted blazing star is a native plant that grows naturally on the Great Plains. It is an upright plant with one to several stems that arise from a central crown.
In late summer, dense purple flower spikes adorn the plant. The flower clusters bloom over a period of time, starting at the top and progressing downward.
Dotted blazing star gets its name from the light-colored glandular dots that occur on the narrow, dark green leaves. Because it's adapted to the central prairies, it can grow well in landscapes with dry, sandy soils. It can also blend well with native grasses in a prairie-style landscape.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Liatris punctata
Pronunciation
ly-AT-riss punk-TAH-tah
Mature Height
12 to 18 in.
Mature Spread
6 to 12 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
purple
Bloom time
August through September
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
Great Plains of United States
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 3-8
Elevation Limit
hardy to 8,500 ft.
Performance
At the Water Wise Demonstration Garden, this species is located in a very dry location. The flowers are very attractive and draw attention with their unusual color and shape. They reseed themselves, but not enough to be noted as a nuisance.
Maintenance
Remove spikes of spent flowers after bloom, or leave the stalks standing to encourage it to spread by seed.
Cut to ground level in late winter before new growth starts.