Liatris
Liatris is a slender, feathery flower spike prized for the vertical rhythm it brings to bouquets and tall arrangements. Its fuzzy, thistle-like florets open from the tip downward — the reverse of most spikes — giving a soft, plumed silhouette in purple, lavender or white. Florists love it as an affordable, hardy line flower that reads as both wildflower-natural and structured. It works beautifully in meadow-style summer designs, sympathy tributes and rustic bouquets.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Eastern and central North America |
| Peak season | July, August |
| Availability | June, July, August, September, October |
| Stem length | 60–90 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | purple, lavender, white |
| Price tier | budget |
Cut stems on a sharp angle and place immediately into clean, cool water with flower food. Strip all foliage that would sit below the waterline, as the fine leaves foul the water quickly. Liatris drinks heavily, so top up vases often and keep it out of direct heat. Unusually for a spike, it opens from the top down, so buy with the upper third already showing colour.
- •Recut stems and refresh water every two to three days
- •Strip lower foliage to keep water clean
- •Keep well hydrated — it is a thirsty stem
- •Buy with the top florets just opening
- •Display away from heat and draughts
- •Remove spent upper florets to tidy the spike
