Product Description
Liatris spicata 'Kobold Original' (25) Bare Root Plants
Common name: gayfeather, blazing star, dense blazing star or marsh blazing star.
Vegetative Form
A shorter cultivar that offers uniformity in height. Stock is totally from division, not seed. Characteristics of this selection are the same as the seed strain, L. spicata 'Kobold', except that it grows only about half as tall.
In all, Liatris is a very strong vertical accent and 'Kobold' is one of the best selections available for border gardens. It is a staple item for cutting gardens; it adds a bright, vertical element to bouquets.
Multiple spikes of bright, rosy lavender flowers open from top to bottom beginning in early summer. Narrow, opposite leaves are up to 10 inches long at the base of the plant and decrease in length up the stems. VEGETATIVE FORM is a shorter cultivar that offers uniformity in height. Stock is totally from division, not seed. Characteristics of this selection are the same as the seed strain, L. spicata 'Kobold', except that it grows only about half as tall.
Height: 18.0-24.0 Inches
Spread: 12.0-14.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Purple shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average Water Needs
Poor to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer - Midsummer
Attracts Butterflies
Bee Friendly
Deer Resistant
Seasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Mass Planting
Liatris spicata 'Kobold Original' is a compact and charming variety of blazing star that is perfect for adding vertical interest to smaller gardens or the front of borders. It is known for its vibrant purple flowers, attractive foliage, and ability to attract pollinators. Here is a closer look at its key features:
Appearance:
- Rosy-Lavender Flowers: 'Kobold Original' features tall, slender spikes of vibrant rosy-lavender flowers. The flowers open from the top down, creating a unique and eye-catching display.
- Grass-Like Foliage: The flowers rise above clumps of narrow, grass-like, medium green leaves, adding a textural element to the garden.
- Compact Habit: This cultivar typically grows to about 14 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide, making it a more compact option compared to other Liatris spicata varieties.
Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day).
- Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is somewhat tolerant of poor soils but performs best in fertile conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3-9, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of climates.
Care:
- Low Maintenance: 'Kobold Original' is a relatively low-maintenance plant.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist.
- Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooms and prevent self-seeding.
Uses:
- Borders: Adds vertical interest and a pop of color to borders and beds.
- Rock Gardens: Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for rock gardens.
- Containers: Can be grown in containers to add a vertical element to patios and balconies.
- Meadow Gardens: Creates a beautiful display when planted in groups in meadow gardens or naturalized areas.
- Cut Flowers: The long-lasting flower spikes are excellent for cutting and using in fresh or dried arrangements.
- Pollinator Gardens: The flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Additional Information:
- Native Plant: Liatris spicata is native to North America, making 'Kobold Original' a good choice for native plant gardens or those seeking to attract native pollinators.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, while the seeds provide food for songbirds.
- Deer Resistant: Deer tend to avoid Liatris.
If you are looking for a compact and colorful perennial with tall, rosy-lavender flower spikes, Liatris spicata 'Kobold Original' is an excellent choice. It is a versatile plant that can be used in various garden settings and will provide long-lasting color and interest.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
