Liatris Flower Facts

Some might think that the onset of summer means that all flowers will be in bloom.  However, this is not the case.  There are a number of flowers that do not bloom until the middle or latter half of summer.  Liatris flowers are examples of flowers that bloom later in the summer season and maintain their blooms until the cooler autumn months arrive.  Although they are only in season for a fairly short period, these flowers are sometimes available at your florist even when out of season.  What would be do without things like import / export and greenhouses?

Liatris flowers are native to various parts of the United States and Canada.  Those grown in the west are different to those in the east and, because of this, they are named accordingly.  The eastern varieties are known as liatris spicata or gayfeather.  The western species is called liatris ligustylis or the Rocky Mountain blazing star.  The eastern liatris flowers grow in marshy areas in the eastern regions of the country while the western variety makes its home in places like Montana, Minnesota and even Mexico. 

The eastern varieties are taller than those in the west.  They grow as large as 4 feet in length and 18 inches wide whereas the western species only grow to a height of up to 3 feet but it can spread to a width of 2 feet.

Liatris flowers are unusual in the sense that, unlike most other linear flowers, they open from the top downwards.  The majority of other linear flowers do the exact opposite and open from the bottom upwards. 

They are also wonderful flowers for drying and are easily dried by hanging upside down.  Even as dried flowers, liatris is a popular bloom.  Dried flower bouquets often include this flower for its different kind of flowers and textures.

Because the flowers bloom from all sides of each stem, these flowers can be placed facing any direction.  They are great for bouquets that will end up being viewed from all angles like the ones you find on dinner or lunch tables.  If you are planning on working with these flowers at all, please note that cases of contact dermatitis resulting from contact with them.  So, if you experience such problems, have sensitive skin or simply don't want to take any chances, where gloves when working with liatris flowers.  If you want to increase the number of florets that open on each stem, apply a solution to encourage the buds to open.  Ask your local florist about such substances as they should have them in stock or at least know where to find them.

Liatris flowers are available in pink, rose and white but purple and lavender shades are more common and popular.  Provided they are cared for correctly as cut flowers they can last as long as two whole weeks!  That means fresh water every few days, displaying them away from direct sunlight and wind and all the other general care guidelines that are followed with most other cut flowers.