Silphium laciniatum

Compass Plant

A tall sturdy plant with large, deeply cut basal leaves that look like huge pin oak leaves. Large, yellow sunflower-like flowers bloom in loose spikes in summer on stiff stems to 9 ft. tall. This plant adds form and texture to the landscape and had a woody taproot sometimes more than 10 feet long to allow it to withstand very dry conditions. The Compass plant has leaves that point in a north south direction so its leaves don’t get scorched by midday sun, hence its name.

Height: 4-12 feet

Sun Requirements: Requires full sun

Water Requirements: Normal to dry conditions

Flowers: Large, yellow sunflower-like flowers July to September

Attracts: Birds, butterflies, bees

Special Tolerances: Drought tolerant