Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’
Blooming Time
Exposure
It is difficult to exaggerate the merits of this superb dark green leaved easily cultured perennial. Not only is ‘Kobold’ a neat attractive clump former with deep shiny green leaves, from mid summer to fall it bears a multitude of upright floral spikes. Each spike contains dozens of magenta-purple flowers which have the unusual habit of maturing first at the top of the spike then progressively downward. ‘Kobold’ is a splendid companion plant and may also be used as a dwarf hedge, or massed as a ground cover. Relatively drought tolerant, it may be counted upon for years of carefree performance.
Details
Hardiness Zone:
Blossom Color:
Violet to Purple
Growth Habit:
Clump Forming
Max Height:
2'
Texture:
Recommended Spacing:
We sell this plant in these containers:
Special Characteristics
Features
Mid- to late-summertime show of magenta-purple flower spikes above deep shiny green leaves.
Landscape Value
Moderate to large scale ground cover, accent, edging, naturalizer, companion. Native cultivar.
Care
Watering:
'Kobold' Spike Gayfeather is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from occasional watering, to maintain soil in a moist but not wet condition, during the summer months.
Fertilizing:
'Kobold' Spike Gayfeather is a moderate feeder, benefiting from a couple of annual applications of slow release fertilizer. A spring application of a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet, and during early fall, an application of a 2-1-2 ratio (such as a 10-5-10) can be applied to encourage root development and cold hardiness.
Pruning:
'Kobold' Spike Gayfeather sets its flower buds in summer, and any pruning should be conducted in April, immediately after winter.