Liatris elegans aka Pinkscale Gayfeather

Taxonomy

Liatris elegans, also known as pinkscale gayfeather, pinkscale blazingstar, and elegant blazingstar, is a variable perennial flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to the southeastern United States, including regions as far west as Texas and Oklahoma, this species can reach heights of up to 1.2m, although it is often shorter. The plant features very narrow leaves that form a basal clump and cover the lower part of the flowering stems. Atop these stems, one can find narrow spires of small, tubular flowers in shades ranging from pale pink to pinky purple. Pinkscale gayfeather is a rare houseplant that thrives with regular watering. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within a foot of a window. Well-draining soil is recommended for this plant, and it typically does not require additional fertilizers if it is repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Pinkscale Gayfeather, Elegant Gayfeather, Pinkscale Blazing Star, Pinkscale Blazingstar, Elegant Blazingstar

How to care for Pinkscale Gayfeather

Water

Pinkscale Gayfeather should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Pinkscale Gayfeather loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Pinkscale Gayfeather requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Pinkscale Gayfeather will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Pinkscale Gayfeather should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.


More info:
Wikipedia