Ontario Blazing Star

(Liatris cylindracea)

Ontario Blazing Star (Liatris cylindracea)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Liatris cylindracea image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Liatris cylindracea, commonly known as Ontario Blazing Star, is a deciduous perennial herb native to North American tallgrass prairies and open woodlands, particularly in the Midwestern and Northeastern USA, as well as in Ontario, Canada. This species thrives in well-drained soils and is adapted to areas with periodic disturbances such as grazing and fire. The Ontario Blazing Star reaches a height of 20–60 cm (8–24 in) and is characterized by its upright, hairless stems and distinctive flower heads. The flowers are typically purple to magenta and bloom in mid to late summer, starting at the top of the cluster. The blooms are highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. The largest basal leaves are located near the bottom of the stem, with smaller leaves progressively up the stem. The plant produces fruits (cypselae) that are 5–7 mm (3⁄16–9⁄32 in) long with feathery pappi, which aid in seed dispersal by wind.

The Ontario Blazing Star is valued for its vertical accent and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for native plant gardens, prairie restorations, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. Gardeners should plant it in full sun and provide well-drained soil with medium to fast drainage. While it can tolerate low to medium water conditions, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. Its deep root system, which can extend to 15 ft (4.6 m), helps the plant survive in challenging environments but may make transplantation difficult. Potential problems include root rot in poorly drained soils and occasional susceptibility to pests like aphids.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Purple, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

North American tallgrass prairies and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Barrelhead Blazing Star, Dwarf Blazing Star, Ontario Blazing-Star, Barrel-Headed Gayfeather, Cylindrical Blazing-Star, Cylindric Blazing Star, Liatris Cylindrique

Scientific Names: , Liatris cylindracea, Lacinaria cylindracea, Liatris squarrosa var. intermedia, Liatris cylindracea var. solitaria, Lacinaria nervata, Liatris cylindracea f. bartelii, Lacinaria cylindracea f. cylindracea, Lacinaria cylindracea f. solitaria, Lacinaria cylindracea var. cylindracea

GBIF Accepted Name: Liatris cylindracea Michx.