Rough Blazingstar (Liatris aspera)

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Liatris aspera, commonly known as Rough Blazinstar, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woods, savannas, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils and full sun, making it ideal for drought-tolerant gardens and upland prairie restorations.

This striking plant typically grows 2 to 5 feet tall and features stiff, unbranched stems with rough, narrow leaves that give the plant its common name. In late summer to early fall, it produces dense, round flower heads with fluffy, purple to lavender blooms arranged along the upper stem. The flowers bloom from the top down—unlike many other blazing stars—and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies (including monarchs), and other pollinators.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Liatris aspera is a standout choice for pollinator gardens, dry prairie landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Its vibrant color, upright form, and ecological value make it a key species in supporting biodiversity. It pairs well with other sun-loving natives like Black-Eyed Susan, Little Bluestem, and Butterfly Weed, contributing both visual interest and habitat support in late-season gardens.

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Liatris aspera, commonly known as Rough Blazinstar, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woods, savannas, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils and full sun, making it ideal for drought-tolerant gardens and upland prairie restorations.

This striking plant typically grows 2 to 5 feet tall and features stiff, unbranched stems with rough, narrow leaves that give the plant its common name. In late summer to early fall, it produces dense, round flower heads with fluffy, purple to lavender blooms arranged along the upper stem. The flowers bloom from the top down—unlike many other blazing stars—and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies (including monarchs), and other pollinators.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Liatris aspera is a standout choice for pollinator gardens, dry prairie landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Its vibrant color, upright form, and ecological value make it a key species in supporting biodiversity. It pairs well with other sun-loving natives like Black-Eyed Susan, Little Bluestem, and Butterfly Weed, contributing both visual interest and habitat support in late-season gardens.

Bloom: late summer to early fall

Habitats: bald knobs; dry clay banks above ditches; gravel prairies; hill prairies; limestone glades; mesic to dry black soil prairies; open areas along railroads (particularly where prairie remnants occur); openings in rocky upland forests; sand prairies; sandy Black Oak woodlands; savannas

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: mesic to dry

Plant type (height): forb (2 to 5 feet)

Requirements: full sun

Soil: clay; loam; rocky material; sand