Description
Blazing Star
This native prairie wildflower, also known as gayfeather, is a nectar-rich favorite of butterflies and hummingbirds. Its dense, bright purple flower spikes bloom from the top down atop long, sturdy stems springing from mounds of slender, grasslike leaves. Leave the dried seed heads on the stem as winter food for songbirds. Deer resistant.
Planting
Blazing Star requires exposure to moist soil and cool temperatures to germinate and will do best when planted outdoors in late fall or early winter. Sow seeds in early spring, but don't expect flowers until the following season. Sow directly in well-drained, average soil and full sun. Seeds require light and moisture to germinate. Blazing Star grows and blooms best with regular light watering, but will tolerate drought once established. Do not over water.
Note
Cold stratify spring sown seeds prior to planting to improve germination. Place seeds in a plastic bag with moist (not wet) seed starting medium and store in the refrigerator for eight weeks prior to planting.
- Seed Space: 8"
- Sprouts in 20-45 days
- Height: 24-48"
- Flowers in Midsummer to Fall
