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Description
Silphium Compositum, also known as the Compass Plant, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and is found in states such as Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Silphium Compositum can grow up to six feet tall and is known for its distinctive leaves that orient themselves to the north-south axis, hence the name Compass Plant. The plant blooms in the summer and produces yellow flowers that attract pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Silphium |
Appearance
Silphium Compositum has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The leaves are long and narrow, growing up to two feet in length, and are deeply lobed. The stems are sturdy and covered in fine hairs. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and can spread up to three feet wide. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms in the summer and can continue to bloom into the fall.
Care Guide
Silphium Compositum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Compass Plant healthy and thriving:- Water: Silphium Compositum prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring for best results.- Soil: Silphium Compositum thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sand.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant it in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Silphium Compositum is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silphium Compositum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Silphium Compositum is native to North America and is found in states such as Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The plant prefers open prairies and savannas and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is often found growing in association with other prairie plants such as Big Bluestem and Indian Grass.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Silphium Compositum?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Silphium Compositum?
A: Silphium Compositum is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Silphium Compositum?
A: Silphium Compositum is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, as well as aphids and spider mites.
Q: What is the habitat of Silphium Compositum?
A: Silphium Compositum prefers open prairies and savannas and is native to North America.
Related Plants
– Silphium integrifolium- Silphium laciniatum- Silphium terebinthinaceum- Silphium perfoliatum
References
– “Silphium Compositum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. University of Texas at Austin, n.d. Web.- “Silphium Compositum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web.- “Silphium Compositum.” USDA Plants Database. United States Department of Agriculture, n.d. Web.
