Blazing Star Flowers

Blazing star (Liatris spp.), also called gayfeather, is a North American prairie perennial grown from corms, prized for its tall bottlebrush flower spikes in purple or white that bloom from the top down and last well as cut flowers.

Occasions & recipients

Find flowers by occasion

Best occasions

  • Graduation
  • Promotion or new job
  • Housewarming
  • Summer wedding
  • Get well soon
  • Birthday

Suitable for

  • Friends
  • Colleagues or clients
  • Teachers or mentors
  • Hosts/hostesses
  • Neighbors
Color taboos
  • White may be associated with mourning in parts of East and Southeast Asia.
  • Purple can symbolize sorrow or penance in some traditions.
  • Deep purple tones may feel somber for baby showers.
  • Avoid funeral color pairings in local culture (e.g., white + yellow in some regions).
Card messages
  • May your days blaze with joy—congratulations!
  • Stand tall and shine—so proud of you.
  • Wishing you strength and inspiration as you start this new chapter.
  • For a home that blooms with happiness—welcome!
  • Sending bright spikes of cheer for a speedy recovery.

At a glance

Key details

Quick reference for habitat, gifting etiquette, and safety when choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients.

Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow, how to present them thoughtfully, and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.

Botanical info

Taxonomy
Family: Asteraceae; Genus: Liatris; Common name: Blazing star, gayfeather; Common cut‑flower species: Liatris spicata.
Distribution
Native to prairies and open woods of eastern and central North America; naturalized and cultivated widely in temperate regions worldwide.
Conservation
Widely cultivated; several native Liatris species are of conservation concern due to prairie habitat loss—source plants from reputable, regionally appropriate nurseries and avoid wild collection.
Presentation etiquette
Present upright to showcase the vertical line; pair with round focal blooms for balance. Trim stems at an angle and strip lower foliage before placing in a tall vase. Use odd numbers for informal bouquets unless local custom differs. Refresh water and recut stems every 2 days for longevity.
Ideal delivery time
Deliver in the cool morning; for events, 1–2 days prior when 1/3–1/2 of each spike is open. Peak seasonal availability is mid‑ to late summer into early fall.
Toxicity
Generally non‑toxic to cats, dogs, and humans; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Sap may irritate sensitive skin—wear gloves if needed.
Allergenicity
Low to moderate; insect‑pollinated with minimal airborne pollen. Handling may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Meaning & taboos

Symbolism & color
Blazing star conveys joyful energy, steadfast confidence, and uplifting inspiration, celebrating endurance and achievement.

Growing & tools

Care & gear
Growing tips
Full sun and well‑drained soil; drought tolerant once established. Plant corms 2–4 in (5–10 cm) deep, 8–12 in (20–30 cm) apart in spring or fall. Avoid waterlogged winter soils; sandy or loamy soils are ideal. Minimal fertilizer needed. Blooms mid‑ to late summer; attracts bees and butterflies. Stems are sturdy and rarely need staking. Hardy in USDA Zones ~3–9. Divide clumps or lift and replant corms every 3–4 years.
Recommended tools
  • Hand trowel
  • Bulb/corm planter
  • Bypass pruning snips
  • Watering can or hose with gentle rose
  • Garden fork for soil loosening
Symbolizes
  • Happiness and joy
  • Blissful affection
  • Inspiration and encouragement
  • Confidence and dignity
  • Long‑lasting beauty