How much sun does Grass-leaf Gayfeather need?

Grass-leaf Gayfeather grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Grass-leaf Gayfeather bloom?

Grass-leaf Gayfeather blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Grass-leaf Gayfeather native?

Grass-leaf Gayfeather (Liatris pilosa) is native to NC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Grass-leaf Gayfeather toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Grass-leaf Gayfeather as toxic to livestock.

What pollinators does Grass-leaf Gayfeather attract?

Grass-leaf Gayfeather draws bees, butterflies, and moths.

Is Grass-leaf Gayfeather HOA-friendly?

Grass-leaf Gayfeather is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Grass-leaf Gayfeather

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Liatris pilosa

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Grass-leaf Gayfeather as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, moths

Grass-leaf gayfeather is a native perennial with thin, grass-like foliage and tall spikes of purple flowers that bloom from top to bottom in summer. This drought-tolerant wildflower forms neat clumps and requires minimal care once established. The flowers attract numerous pollinators and the plant goes dormant in winter.

In an HOA neighborhood

Grass-leaf Gayfeather is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Goes completely dormant in winter

Wildlife value

Excellent pollinator plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and moths during its long summer bloom period. The seeds also provide food for birds in fall.

Common questions

How much sun does Grass-leaf Gayfeather need?: Grass-leaf Gayfeather grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Grass-leaf Gayfeather bloom?: Grass-leaf Gayfeather blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Grass-leaf Gayfeather native?: Grass-leaf Gayfeather (Liatris pilosa) is native to NC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Grass-leaf Gayfeather toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Grass-leaf Gayfeather as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Grass-leaf Gayfeather attract?: Grass-leaf Gayfeather draws bees, butterflies, and moths.
Is Grass-leaf Gayfeather HOA-friendly?: Grass-leaf Gayfeather is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Grass-leaf Gayfeather? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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