A robust perennial with big bold basal leaves and tall stems which bear round sunflower-like yellow flowers in late summer. The foliage grows 24-36 in. tall, the flower stalks may reach 96 inches (8 ft.) or more. Seed heads attract finches and other songbirds. The foliage and flowers are excellent in flower arrangements.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Prairie Dock
Silphium terebinthinaceum
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Glade
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Yellow
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Mervin Wallace
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Food/Birds, Food/Pollinators
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
72 to
96
inches
Spread:
18 to
30
inches
Size
Height: 72 to
96
inches
Spread: 18 to
30
inches
Size
Height: 72 to
96
inches
Spread: 18 to
30
inches
Typical Landscape Use
The large leaves provide excellent bold texture in perennial borders and native gardens.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grow in full sun in moist or dry soil.
Special Features
Special Usage
Dried Flower, Fresh Cut Flower
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.