Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum) [SILL-fee-um per-fo-lee-AY-tum] |
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| Other Names | Silphium perfoliatum 1 Gal., Silphium perfoliatum (NGN) |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Why Like | Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum) is one of the biggest plants you'll see in Crow Island Woods which isn't a tree. The seeds are enjoyed by a variety of birds. |
| Description |
Silphium perfoliatum, commonly known as the Cup Plant, is a striking native perennial closely related to the Compass Plant (Silphium laciniatum). The most distinctive feature of the Cup Plant is its unique leaf arrangement, where the stem appears to pierce through the center of the leaf, creating a cup-like formation that can hold water, giving the plant its common name. Reaching heights of 6-8 feet tall, the Cup Plant has an impressive, architectural presence in the garden with its bold foliage and large, yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in summer and attract pollinators. Silphium perfoliatum is a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plant that requires little care once established. It is tolerant of poor, dry soils and does not need regular fertilization. In addition to its ornamental value, the Cup Plant offers valuable ecosystem benefits, providing nectar and pollen for pollinators and serving as a food source for herbivores. Overall, the Cup Plant is a resilient and visually striking native perennial that can be a beautiful and functional addition to a variety of landscape designs. |
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| Plant Data | |
| I am a... | Deciduous Perennial |
| Where to Find It | At the end of the season, Cup Plant is impossible to miss in the wetland at the north end of the property. |
| How to Recognize It | By the end of summer, Cup Plant 2-3" yellow flowers on stems with very large leaves can tower nearly 10' above ground. |
| Why to Like | Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum) is one of the biggest plants you'll see in Crow Island Woods which isn't a tree. The seeds are enjoyed by a variety of birds. |
| Mature Size | 6 - 8 feet tall. 24 - 36 inches wide. |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun - Full Sun |
| Moisture Tolerance | Medium : |
| Zones | 3a - 7b |
| Tags | Illinois Native |
| Bloom Period | July to September |
| Flower Color | Yellow
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| Animals That Use It |
Seeds: |
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More Photos: Google Image Search & Flickr |
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