Liatris pycnostachya Thalictrum the 3' flower spikes of

the 3' flower spikes of Kniphofia rooperi emerge in August and continue through October

that are followed by attractive seed heads

but 3' tall is more typical

Unlike our native mayapple

With leaves that look and feel more like a cow's tongue

Liatris pycnostachya Thalictrum the 3' flower spikes ofLiatris pycnostachya is an amazing Central US (Canada south to Texas) prairie native that's one of the most stunning of the blazing star species. In July, the top half of the giant 4' tall stems are lined with clusters of bottle brush like purple flowers, opening slowly from the bottom to the top. The bottom half of the spikes are clothed with narrow green leaves. This is one of the best blazing stars for making an impact in the perennial border.