Liatris spicata Alba

Liatris alba is a gorgeous, wildlife-friendly perennial with tall, slender spikes of soft white, fluffy flowers that open from the top down—giving it a really distinctive look in the border. Flowering in mid to late summer, it adds height, texture and movement, and it’s a magnet for bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Liatris also makes a brilliant cut flower, and the upright spires are perfect for weaving through grasses and other sun-loving perennials for a natural, prairie-style feel.

Despite its elegant appearance, Liatris is tough and reliable. It grows from a corm-like root and, once established, copes well with drier conditions as long as the soil drains well. It’s also a great choice if you want something a little different from the usual white flowers—airy, modern and very easy to mix into most colour schemes.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare roots in spring (or in autumn in milder areas), when the soil is moist and workable. Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Liatris thrives in light, free-draining ground and is ideal for mixed borders, prairie-style planting, wildlife-friendly gardens, and cutting gardens. Avoid heavy, wet soils in winter.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant the root/corm so the top sits about 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) below the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart to allow room for clumps to develop.
• Soil Prep: If your soil is heavy, mix in grit or coarse sand to improve drainage. A little compost is helpful, but avoid overly rich soil.

Watering:
Water well after planting. Keep the soil lightly moist while shoots establish. Once growing strongly, Liatris is fairly drought tolerant, but will flower best if watered during prolonged dry spells.

Aftercare Tips:

• Keep the area weed-free while plants establish.
• Stems are usually sturdy, but in very exposed sites you can add discreet support.
• Deadhead after flowering for tidiness, or leave seedheads for winter interest and wildlife.
• Cut back dead stems in late autumn or early spring.

Top Tip:
Liatris alba looks superb planted in drifts with ornamental grasses, Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Achillea. For longer vase life, cut flower spikes when around a third of the florets have opened.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

July - September

Height:
24–36" (60–90cm)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial