Liatris microcephala, commonly known as Smallhead Blazing Star, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands and grassy prairies in the Southeastern USA. It typically grows to a height and width of 2 feet (0.6 meters) and 0.8-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters), respectively. The plant features narrow, grass-like leaves and erect stems topped with dense, round clusters of fluffy, bright purple flowers that bloom in the late summer to early fall, attracting butterflies and other pollinators.

Smallhead Blazing Star is valued for its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic plantings, rock gardens, and borders. It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils, although it can tolerate poorer soils. This species is not typically associated with any serious disease or pest problems, but it can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils. It is also appreciated for its use in cut flower arrangements and as a dried flower due to the longevity of its blooms.CC BY-SA 4.0