Pest identification
What's eating my scaly blazing star?
Liatris borer moth (Carmenta anthracipennis)
Signs: Sudden stem wilt; hollow center when cut; sawdust-like frass at the base
Control: Remove and destroy affected stems promptly; avoid leaving hollow debris in the garden over winter
Aphids
Signs: Sticky residue and curled foliage on new growth; colonies visible on stems
Control: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings
Rabbits
Signs: Neatly clipped stems and missing foliage at ground level in early season
Control: Use wire-mesh cloches around young plants; established plants recover well
Keep scaly blazing star pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Scaly Blazing Star pests — FAQ
What is eating my scaly blazing star?
Scaly Blazing Star (Liatris squarrosa) faces the same core threats as other Liatris: stem-boring caterpillars are the most serious pest, while aphids and rabbits cause opportunistic damage. Deer pressure is generally low. Overall a tough native, but inspect stem bases regularly for borer entry holes.
How do I get rid of liatris borer moth (carmenta anthracipennis) on scaly blazing star?
Sudden stem wilt; hollow center when cut; sawdust-like frass at the base Remove and destroy affected stems promptly; avoid leaving hollow debris in the garden over winter
How do I get rid of aphids on scaly blazing star?
Sticky residue and curled foliage on new growth; colonies visible on stems Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings
How do I get rid of rabbits on scaly blazing star?
Neatly clipped stems and missing foliage at ground level in early season Use wire-mesh cloches around young plants; established plants recover well