Landscape Alternatives
Similar to Acroptilon repens (L.) DC.
Cirisum discolor (Muhl. Ex Wild.) Spreng.
Field Thistle
This species is native to much of the United States and blooms throughout the late summer and early fall. It is widely used for attracting wildlife, including the Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) butterfly, which uses the flowers as a nectary, and the American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis), which is fond of thistle seeds.
Liatris aspera var. intermedia (Lunell) Gaiser
Tall Blazingstar
This species is a tall perennial with stalks of beautiful purple flowers that bloom from July to October. It is tolerant of a wind range of soil moisture and light levels and does well in sandy or rocky soils.