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Heller's Blazing Star in NCHeller's Blazing Star in North Carolina

Liatris helleri

Status:  Threatened

Family:  Aster

Flowering/Fruiting Dates:  July-September/September-October

Habitat:  High elevation ledges of rock outcrops and cliffs in shallow acid soils; full sun

Distinguishing Characteristics:  Spike of lavender flowers on one or more erect stems (max. 16 inches) arising from a tuft of narrow pale green basal leaves; differs from other high-elevation Liatris by its much shorter pappus (usually half the length of the corolla tube or less) and ciliate petioles, internally pilose corolla tubes, and lower, stockier habit.

Threats: Trampling; commercial, residential and recreational development; collection; possible fire suppression.
 
 
 

Species Distribution from known occurrences. Species may occur in similar habitats in other counties.Green counties indicate observed within 20 years. Yellow counties indicate an obscure data reference to the species in the county. Red counties indicate observed more than 20 years ago.

County map of North Carolina indicating location of species

Species Location Map based on information provided by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program.
For additional information regarding this Web page, contact Carolyn Wells, in Asheville, NC, at carolyn_wells@fws.gov

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