Liatris spicata 'Kobold', 3 plants per bag

This compact variety of the prairie native forms low grassy clumps and produces recurring spikes of showy, pink-purple blossoms. Liatris spicata 'Kobold' is easy to grow and perfect for sunny beds and borders. It pairs well with Echinacea, Coreopsis, and Phlox.

The genus Liatris, native to North America, includes about 40 species all beloved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Their fluffy, somewhat star-like or feathery blossoms (from which the common names Blazing Star and Gayfeather derive) open from top to bottom on tall flower spikes which stand above basal clusters of attractive, linear foliage. Liatris make fantastic accent plants in summer-blooming borders and beds (appearing to best advantage when planted in groups), and they are central to any pollinator garden. The flower stalks are superb for cutting and drying, as well. Plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Depending on the species, they may tolerate moist or dry conditions. As members of the Aster family, Liatris are unusual in that their individual blossoms comprise only disc flowers, not a combination of disc and ray flowers characteristic of the composite blooms in this family (as seen in the common Daisy).

Like other Blazing Stars, Liatris spicata is an easy-care, clump-forming, upright pollinator magnet. Native to eastern Canada and eastern and central portions of the US, it produces densely crowded spikes of feathery, reddish-purple flower heads, which are sometimes accented with white. Unlike some of its relatives, this native of marsh perimeters, meadows, and lowlands thrives in moist, fertile soils (although plants will not flourish in areas that are wet in winter). Established plants tolerate drought. While most top out at 2-4’, some rise as high as 6’, creating a towering waystation for butterflies and bees in the sunny summer garden, as well as for songbirds later in the season, who feast on the seeds. Taller plants may need staking or the support of a fence or surrounding companions. This Liatris is an excellent replacement plant for the invasive Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).

For more information on growing and care, click Growing Guide.

We want our customers to receive strong, healthy plants that are ready to thrive in their gardens and homes. Here's what we'd like you to know about our shipping practices.

Delivery Timing

We aim to deliver your plants at as close to the proper time for planting in your area as possible. To do so, we consider the USDA Hardiness Zone to which we're shipping, current and forecasted weather at the destination and along the shipping route, and whether your plants are ready for transplant.

In spring, we ship first to the warmest regions and move north as planting conditions improve. For fall deliveries, we begin with the coolest regions and work south. We frequently adjust shipping schedules when extreme weather could put plants at risk while in transit or soon after arrival.

Because different plants reach readiness at different rates and are weather-sensitive in varying degree, a single order may be delivered via multiple shipments. Plants sold as part of a collection, or that are otherwise meant to arrive together, will be shipped together. Please contact our customer service team with two weeks' advance notice if you anticipate being away at the expected time of delivery. 

Tracking information for each package is delivered via email. 

Plant & Container Sizes

We deliver plants in various sizes and stages of growth, and the product detail pages of our website indicate the form and/or pot size in which the plant will be delivered. Pot sizes range from 1 pint to 1 gallon and larger. Many perennials, roses, shrubs and vines are delivered bareroot - that is, not in a container at all. Bulbs and tubers are generally delivered bareroot and fully dormant. We choose container sizes and delivery methods based on how each plant grows best, how we can minimize transplant shock, and how to minimize unnecessary bulk/weight in shipment. 

Caring for Your Plants Upon Arrival

It is important to acclimate greenhouse-grown plants to life outdoors. All plant shipments include simple instructions for handling your plants upon arrival. Further how-to information, including planting instructions, is available on each plant's product page.

Latin Name Pronunciation: lye-ay'-triss

Plant in well-drained, even dry, soil. Liatris spicata 'Kobold' also tolerates damp soil in summer (it will rot in soil that remains wet through the winter). It is often difficult to tell top from bottom on Liatris corms; when in doubt, plant them on their sides. Remove spent flower spikes to prevent the appearance of unwanted seedlings.

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Should you have any questions about how our guarantee applies to a particular product or circumstance, our customer service team will be happy to help – please contact us at (800) 411-6159 or [email protected].