Liatris spicata Kobold

Liatris ‘Kobold’ is one of the best-loved blazing stars—compact, reliable and absolutely covered in vivid purple flower spikes in mid to late summer. The blooms are packed with fluffy florets that open from the top down, creating a striking vertical accent that weaves perfectly through borders and prairie-style planting. It’s a real pollinator powerhouse too, drawing in bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects, and it makes a long-lasting cut flower for fresh arrangements.

Growing from a corm-like root, ‘Kobold’ forms tidy clumps and is ideal where you want colour and structure without taking up too much space. It’s brilliant mixed with ornamental grasses, Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Achillea, and it’s also a great choice for adding punch to smaller borders and sunny containers (with good drainage).

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 corm/root 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 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 ‘Kobold’ is perfect for adding vertical colour in smaller spaces. Plant in groups for the best impact, and cut stems for the vase when the lower florets are starting to open for the longest lasting display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
July - September

Height:
18–24" (45–60cm)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial