Plant, Tree & Shrub Library
 
perennial

Kobold

Liatris spicata 'Kobold'

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Kobold  (Liatris spicata 'Kobold') at Bachman's Landscaping

Kobold flowers

Kobold flowers

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Kobold  (Liatris spicata 'Kobold') at Bachman's Landscaping

Kobold in bloom

Kobold in bloom

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Plant Height:  18 inches

Flower Height:  24 inches

Spread:  18 inches

Sunlight:  full sun 

Hardiness Zone:  2

Other Names:  Gayfeather

Ornamental Features

Kobold has masses of beautiful spikes of violet flowers rising above the foliage from mid summer to early fall, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its grassy leaves remain green in color throughout the season.

Landscape Attributes

Kobold is an herbaceous perennial with a rigidly upright and towering form. It brings an extremely fine and delicate texture to the garden composition and should be used to full effect.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. It is a good choice for attracting butterflies to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

  • Self-Seeding

Kobold is recommended for the following landscape applications;

  • Mass Planting
  • General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Kobold will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity extending to 24 inches tall with the flowers, with a spread of 18 inches. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!

This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under typical garden conditions. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils, and is subject to chlorosis (yellowing) of the foliage in alkaline soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This is a selection of a native North American species. It can be propagated by division; however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.

 
 
Hardiness Zone Plant Height Minimum Sunlight Soil pH Preference
Characteristics
Massing  Garden 
Applications
Flowers  Texture  Attracts Wildlife 
Ornamental Features