Snakeroot, Dotted blazing star, Mexican blazing star, Nebraska blazing star

Liatris punctata

Physical Characteristics

Liatris punctata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Alberta to New Mexico and Texas, east to Minnesota and Nebraska..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[46, 61, 105, 161, 212, 257]. A sweet flavour when harvested in the spring and baked[257]. Eating the root is said to improve the appetite[257].

Medicinal Uses

Antipruritic Diuretic Poultice Stomachic An infusion of the roots has been used in the treatment of stomach aches, bloody urine and women's bladder complaints[257]. The root has been chewed and the juice swallowed in the treatment of swollen testes[257]. A decoction of the roots is used as a wash for itching skin complaints[238, 257]. A poultice of the boiled roots is applied to swellings[257].

Known Hazards

None known