Common Name: |
Blazing Star |
Other Names: |
Button snakeroot, gay feather |
Botanical Name: |
Liatris spicata |
Genus: |
Liatris |
Family: |
Asteraceae |
Location: |
Eastern USA |
Cultivation: |
Moist to wet soil in an open, sunny position. Dislikes heavy soil. Shoots may be damaged by slugs. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown when ripe (species); by division in spring. |
Harvest: |
Leaves are collected during summer, and roots in autumn, and are used fresh in syrups or dried for use in decoctions. |
Height: |
1-1.5m (3-5ft) |
Width: |
45cm (18in) |
Variations: |
Alba Has white flowers. |
Kobold Syn. Goblin Is dwarf, with deep purple flowers Height: 40-50cm (16-20in) |
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Hardiness: |
Z4-9 |
Parts Used: |
Leaves, roots |
Properties: |
A biter, aromatic herb that is tonic and astringent, and has ant-bacterial and diuretic effects. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for kidney disease and gonorrhea. Externally for sore throat. |
Economic Uses: |
Leaves and roots are added to insect-repellent mixtures made with herbs as well as to potpourris. |
Bibliography: |
Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 260
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