White Spike Gayfeather
Liatris spicata ‘Alba’White Spike Gayfeather is a striking native perennial prized for its elegant white flower spikes, upright habit, and outstanding pollinator value. Blooming from mid to late summer, it produces tall, densely packed spikes of fluffy white flowers that open from the top downward, creating a unique and eye-catching display. The bright blooms rise above clumps of narrow, grass-like foliage, adding vertical interest and texture to perennial borders and native gardens.
Its strong architectural form makes it an excellent choice for mixed borders, meadow plantings, rain gardens, and cut flower arrangements. The long-lasting blooms provide abundant nectar for butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators, while the seed heads may attract birds later in the season.
Typically reaching 2 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 1.5 feet wide, White Spike Gayfeather forms tidy clumps that return reliably each year. Its adaptability and long bloom season make it an excellent addition to naturalized landscapes and pollinator-friendly gardens.
This perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil but also tolerates periodically moist conditions once established. It is heat-tolerant, deer-resistant, and requires very little maintenance, making it a dependable performer in a variety of landscape settings.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in full sun for the best flowering and strongest stems.
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but adapts to average and moderately moist soils.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Liatris is drought-tolerant once established.
Fertilizing: Fertilization is rarely necessary; apply compost in spring if desired.
Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks after blooming or leave seed heads for winter interest and birds. Cut foliage back in late fall or early spring.
Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart for mature growth and airflow.
Maintenance: Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Its elegant white flower spikes, native heritage, and exceptional wildlife value make White Spike Gayfeather a standout addition to sunny gardens and restoration plantings.
