Liatris spicata

Liatris spicata, nicknamed the Kansas Feather for the feathery appearance of its flower spikes, is a widespread bulbous perennial, especially in Kansas, where it grows freely, on rather moist terrain. With a long flowering period, Liatris with its spiky flowers, blooms from July to September. It produces quite exceptional, dense flowers which are a pretty purplish pink colour, and open from top to bottom. A very structural flower: it brings verticality to any setting.

Liatris spicata is a herbaceous perennial with a strongly upright habit from the Asteraceae family originating from the eastern and southern United States. Its above-ground growth emerges in spring and disappears in winter. Its stump can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) in winter if the soil is not waterlogged. The foliage is linear and narrow, giving the plant a light appearance. Its basal leaves, 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16in) long, resemble grass, while the cauline leaves, present on the stem, are smaller. The flowering is renewed for several weeks in summer. The flowers, 0.5 to 1 cm (0.5in) long, are a soft purplish pink colour. The flower spikes measure from 45 to 70 cm (18 to 28in) long. These charming flowers raise the plant to a height of 80 cm (32in) at maturity, up to 1.20 m (4ft) for the tallest flower stalks. It is nectar-producing, meaning it contains substances collected by pollinating insects that they will transform into honey.

The Kansas Feather combines perfectly with other perennials in flower beds. It can be placed in a large border, not far from a water feature, but also in pots on balconies and patios. It is an excellent cut flower that will enhance your home. To accompany it, think of perennial plants such as Delphiniums, Vernonias, hastate verbenas, as well as medium-sized grasses such as Miscanthus or the tufted hair grass Deschampsia cespitosa.