Silphium terebinthinaceum
prairie burdock
A very tall herbaceous perennial, to 4m, with a basal rosette of very large, oblong to heart-shaped leaves. Sturdy, upright, branching stems support masses of yellow, daisy-like flowers from mid-summer to mid-autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Silphium are robust herbaceous perennials with tall stems bearing simple leaves, aromatic when bruised, and loose clusters of yellow, daisy-like flowers in summer and early autumn
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E North America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, deep, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun or partial shade; best in heavy soil
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Architectural
- Prairie planting
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
May be cut back after flowering, or leave architectural stems until shortly before new growth begins the following season
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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