Liatris Spicata - Gayfeather

Liatris spicata, or Gayfeather, is a lovely cultivar of a native prairie wildflower. It grows to form a low, compact grassy clump with two foot tall spikes of mauve blossoms. The flower stalks develop from top to bottom and are often used as a cut flower. There are a few different cultivars available so you may see white and purple-blue flowered Liatris in some garden centres, as well as the more common pink-purple 'Kobold.' Liatris makes a great addition to the perennial flower garden and is attractive to butterflies.