Silphium laciniatum (Compass plant) 6-pack

Silphium laciniatum, commonly known as prairie dock or compass plant, is a native prairie plant species that belongs to the sunflower family. It is a tall perennial plant that can grow up to 10 feet in height, and it is usually found in open grasslands, prairies, and savannas throughout much of the central United States. One of the most distinctive features of Silphium laciniatum is its deeply lobed leaves that resemble a compass needle, hence its common name. The leaves can grow up to two feet long and are covered in fine hairs, which help to protect the plant from water loss and herbivores.

Silphium laciniatum is an important plant for both plant conservation and ecology. It has a deep taproot that can grow up to 15 feet deep, which helps to anchor the plant in place and allows it to access water and nutrients from deep within the soil. This makes it an ideal plant for preventing soil erosion and improving soil structure. Additionally, Silphium laciniatum is a valuable source of nectar and pollen for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths, making it an important plant for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Silphium laciniatum also has a long history of medicinal use by Native American tribes for a variety of ailments, including respiratory problems and snakebites. Today, it is still used in herbal medicine as a natural remedy for coughs and colds.