Liatris spicata (Gayfeather)

10 bulbs
£2.89
£0.29 each
30 bulbs
£8.89
£0.30 each

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Liatris flower spikes open from the top down, creating a distinctive ‘reverse’ blooming effect that adds movement and texture—plus it’s a favourite nectar source for many pollinators.

Liatris spicata is a striking perennial for sunny borders, producing upright flower spikes that add height and rhythm to planting schemes, prairie-style gardens, and cutting patches in late summer.

With narrow, grass-like foliage and bottlebrush blooms in purplish-pink tones, it forms neat clumps that mix easily with grasses and daisies, bringing strong vertical accents without looking heavy.

Plant corms in full sun in light to moderately fertile soil that drains well yet stays reliably moist in summer. Avoid waterlogged winter ground, which can reduce vigour and flowering.

Water during dry spells while growth is active, and keep weeds down so stems develop strongly. Deadhead to extend the display, then cut stems back to the ground in winter once foliage has faded.

Superb for pollinator-friendly borders and long-lasting cut flowers, liatris brings colour and structure when many earlier perennials are finishing, helping to carry the garden through to autumn.

Botanical name Liatris spicata
Flower colour Purplish-pink
Bulb size 8/10
Established height 60–80 cm
Established spread 20–40 cm
Plant spacing 12 per m²
Leaf colour Green
Habit Tufted
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full sun
Position Exposed or Sheltered
Suitable for Borders, Cutting garden, Wildlife garden
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Moist but well-drained
Soil type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
RHS Award (AGM) No
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

Plant in full sun in well-drained soil that stays evenly moist in summer. Liatris is ideal for prairie-style borders and wildlife gardens, and it performs best where the ground is not wet over winter.

How to Plant:

Plant corms in spring, about 8–10cm deep with the growing point facing up. Space them 10–15cm apart for a fuller display. Water in after planting, then keep the soil lightly moist as shoots emerge.

Aftercare:

Water during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first season. Deadhead spent spikes to keep things tidy, then cut stems down in winter. Divide or replant clumps every few years if flowering declines.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Attracts wildlife

Perfect for pots

Good for cutting

£2.89

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