Liatris spicata
These beautiful spikes of bright magenta blooms help bring in the pollinators. This vertically spiking plant, also known as Gayfeather, unfurls blooms from tip to stem, like a flame descending a sparkler stick. No wonder it is so attractive to so many pollinators: its showy spikes draw in crowds of butterflies, moths, bees, nymphs, and hummingbirds. The larvae of the spectacular Bleeding Flower Moth, depicted in the artwork, feed on the leaves of Liatris species such as this. It is also attractive to humans, who appreciate the ombre tones of the spike as it moves from the bud to flower stage.
Hudson Valley Art Packs
Each year, Hudson Valley Seeds commissions contemporary artists from around the United States to tell the story of a particular seed variety. That art and those seeds combine to create an Art Pack, a unique celebration of the diverse stories of seeds and their stewards.
Artwork by Christina Hollering. Christina's high-impact rendering of Blazing Star is a paper and mylar collage combined with acrylic paint. Its striking symmetry and bright tones capture this plant in a way that seems truly ablaze.
Directions:
For spring sowing, sow 8-10 weeks before last frost in deep seed-starting pots about ¼" deep, in rich, damp soil. Germination can be encouraged and will happen faster, if seeds are then covered and refrigerated for 3-4 weeks. Afterwards, move to a 70-degree, well-lit spot for germination, which will occur in 20-45 days. Transplant outdoors after frost in an area where plants can naturalize. Perennial - plants usually do not bloom until the second year.
