Rough Blazing Star

Rough Blazing Star usually blooms in late summer to early fall, most actively through August and September. Its widely spaced, button-like purple flowerheads open sequentially along the tall stems, providing a long-lasting display.

As a drought-tolerant native of the eastern North American prairies, Rough Blazing Star thrives in full sun and dry, well-drained soils. It naturally occurs in sandy plains, rocky bluffs, and upland prairies, making it highly tolerant of poor, dry dirt.

You can identify *Liatris aspera* by its widely spaced, stalkless flowerheads and its noticeably rough, bristly leaves. Other common species, like the dense blazing star (*Liatris spicata*), have much more densely packed flower spikes along the stem.

This plant is a massive draw for butterflies, particularly Monarchs preparing for their fall migration. It also attracts native bees, skippers, and occasionally hummingbirds seeking its late-season nectar.