Ontario Native
Rough Blazing Star
Liatris aspera
Flower colour
Purple to lavender (occasionally pinkish)
Bloom time
Late summer to early fall
Height
24–48"
Light
Full sun to very light shade
Moisture
Average to dry (It is exceptionally drought-tolerant, naturally thriving in sandy, rocky, and poor nutrient-deficient soils. It cannot tolerate waterlogged winter conditions.)
Native to Ontario
Yes
Ecological benefit
Outstanding nectar plant for butterflies (especially Monarch butterflies during migration). Attracts native bees and beneficial insects. Seeds eaten by birds. It is a preferred food source for Tiger Swallowtails, Clouded Sulphurs, Painted Ladies, and Red Admiral.
Notes
Great for prairie gardens and sandy/poor soils. Especially good paired with coneflowers and prairie grasses. fluffy seed heads (pappus) remain upright through the winter, providing critical cold-season seeds for songbirds like finches.