Kobold Gayfeather

Kobold Gayfeather is a compact form of Blazing Star, with rosy-lavender flower wands rising above narrow green leaves. The upright spikes open from their tips downward and add a strong vertical accent to sunny borders and cutting gardens. ## Growth and placement Walters Gardens lists the seed-form Kobold at 18–30 inches high and 12–16 inches wide, with pink-toned flowers, green foliage, and USDA zones 3–9. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil; the grower notes that Liatris spicata prefers more moisture than other species in the genus and may need staking. The cultivar flowers in early to midsummer, and its spikes attract bees and butterflies. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone evenly moist during establishment but avoid standing water. Divide the tuberous roots every few years when clumps become crowded. Stake flower stems if wind or rain causes them to lean, then cut back old foliage after the season. [Walters Gardens Kobold profile](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=LIAKO).