Liatris spicata, 35 seeds
Native to the prairies and meadows of Eastern North America, Liatris spicata is a robust, upright, slender perennial that does equally well in a garden setting. The most moisture-tolerant species in the genus, dense gayfeather grows from a rounded woody corm in early spring to form a clump of linear, grassy leaves. The delicate foliage then extend up the stems which are topped with striking, feathery, rose-purple flowers. A favorite of florists, these long distinctive flower spikes are also magnets for many pollinators such as bees, hummingbirds and butterflies. In the fall, the whole plant turns orangey bronze with wheat-colored seed heads that are enjoyed by many birds. 3 to 6 feet tall, 2 feet wide. Full sun to part shade. Adaptable to most garden soils. Tolerant of heat, humidity and drought though it performs better with regular water. Fresh seeds, harvested 07/2020.