cattail gayfeather
Liatris pycnostachya
USDA zones3 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 5 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Lilac-purple
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Cattail gayfeather (Liatris pycnostachya) is a perennial for borders, cut flowers, pollinator gardens, and meadows. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to moist soil of most types. Lilac-purple flower spikes open from the top downward, and the fuzzy look comes from protruding stamens and styles. Bees and butterflies visit the blooms for nectar.
Pairs well with White Swan coneflower, Mexican hat, and Indian grass.
Native range
Central and southeastern United States.