How to grow Blazing Star in the UK
Liatris spicata
Blazing Star (Liatris spicata) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Unusual top-down flowering bottle-brushes. Butterfly magnet. Brilliant cut flower. This guide covers when and how to sow Blazing Star, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Blazing Star
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant at the same depth as the pot
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant container-grown stock spring or autumn; divide established clumps in spring
- Growing
- Water well the first season until established; mulch in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back faded foliage in late autumn or early spring; divide every 3–4 years
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on new shoots; otherwise robust
Companion planting for Blazing Star
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Blazing Star to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Blazing Star FAQs
How much sun does Blazing Star need?
Blazing Star prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When should I plant Blazing Star in the UK?
In the UK, plant Blazing Star in April. Planting in this window gives the roots time to establish before the plant is asked to grow away.
Is Blazing Star easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Unusual top-down flowering bottle-brushes. Butterfly magnet. Brilliant cut flower.