Gayfeather, Thickspike
(Liatris pycnostachya)

Thickspike Gayfeather, also known as Prairie Blazingstar, is a good cut flower and attracts birds, hummingbirds and butterflies, including the rare Schinia gloriosa (Glorious Flower Moth) caterpillar. Plants grow to 4 feet tall and are tolerant of poor soils, drought, heat and humidity. Seeds can have some dormancy and should be planted in late fall, or provide cold stratification for 30-60 days prior to planting in spring.