Similarly, blazing star produces purple flowers, but their petals are shaped like spikes. This is due to the disc florets that give the flower petals their characteristic bottlebrush appearance.

Liatris aka blazing star are native plants that attract pollinators. Their tall flower spikes bloom in August, adding visual interest to your garden.

The northern blazing star flower was never particularly widespread in New England. It likes to grow in specific conditions, such as dry, sandy or rocky open places. Currently, it can be found on ...