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Description
Silphium Laciniatum, commonly known as Compass Plant, is a tall, hardy perennial plant that is native to the central and eastern parts of North America. It is known for its unique leaf orientation, which aligns with the north-south axis and helps it to conserve water by reducing sun exposure during the hottest part of the day.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Silphium |
Appearance
Compass Plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Its leaves are deeply lobed and can measure up to 2 feet long and 1 foot wide. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from July to September. The flowers are large and can measure up to 3 inches in diameter. The stem of the plant is rigid and hairy.
Care Guide
Compass Plant requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures, but it does require regular watering during the first year of growth. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost in the spring can help improve soil quality. Compass Plant is hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Compass Plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spots if grown in areas with high humidity or if overwatered. These issues can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Compass Plant is native to the central and eastern parts of North America, including the Great Plains region. It can be found in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Compass Plant be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Compass Plant in containers, it is not recommended. The plant can grow quite large and requires a lot of space for its root system. It is best suited for garden beds or as a focal point in a large landscape.
Q: How often should Compass Plant be watered?
A: Compass Plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, during the first year of growth, it should be watered regularly to establish a strong root system. After that, it can be watered as needed during periods of drought.
Q: Can Compass Plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: While it is possible to propagate Compass Plant from cuttings, it is not recommended. The plant is difficult to root, and the success rate is low. It is best propagated from seed.
Q: How long does it take for Compass Plant to bloom?
A: Compass Plant typically blooms in its second or third year of growth. The flowers appear in mid-summer and continue through the fall.
Related Plants
- Silphium integrifolium
- Silphium perfoliatum
- Silphium terebinthinaceum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Silphium laciniatum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281953&isprofile=0&
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Silphium laciniatum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SILA3
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). Compass plant. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/compass-plant-silphium-laciniatum/
