Liatris flowers – interesting flower facts

While there are many types of flowers than bloom as soon as summer arrives, there are those that are late bloomers too. Liatris flowers are just one such example. While they may only appear later in the summer season, this does not mean that they will be gone too soon. Late bloomers like liatris often continue producing flowers until the autumn season begins. Depending on just how mild the autumn season is, you could enjoy them for a good while before the winter sets in.

Natural habitat

Liatris flowers are native to Canada and various parts of the United States. There are differences between those that grow in the west versus those that grow in the east. Those that grow in the east are knowns as grayfeather or liatris spicata. As for those in the west, they are known as Rocky Mountain Blazing Star or liatris ligustylis.

Height

The western varieties of liatris flowers do not grow as tall as eastern varieties. The eastern plants can reach up to 4 feet in length and 18 inches in width. In the west, they only reach up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width.

Opening buds

Liatris flowers are unique in that they open from the bottom upwards unlike most other flowers that do the exact opposite.

Dried arrangements

These blooms are excellent if you want to make your very own dried flower arrangements. This is because they help add both colour and texture to your bouquet.

Allergic reactions

When handling liatris flowers, it is important to make sure that you wear gloves. These blooms are known for causing different types of skin irritations. If you want to increase the number of flowers that open on each stem, you should apply a solution to the stem that will encourage them to open. Your florist should have knowledge about these substances and they may even have something for sale.

Beautiful colours

Whether you are looking for pink, purple, rose, white or lavender blooms, you can find liatris flowers in all of these colours. They are known for having a vase life of about two weeks. Provided, of course, they are properly cared for.

Now that you know all about liatris flowers, all you need to do is plan your next bouquet design and all the blooms you would like to accompany these beauties in a vase.