Plant Profile

Cup Plant - (Silphium Perfoliatum)  is a native wildflower in the Asteraceae (Daisy) family.  It typically grows to around 6', however, can grow to reach 9' tall. And it is commonly found in open woods, lake borders, ditches, meadows, prairies, and thickets in the Midwest and Upper Midwest. Although it is clay soil tolerant, the preferred soil for planting is loam-based. The lower leaves can drop during periods of drought.  The leaves and buds can turn brown, grow stunted and flowers may fall off in response to drought or disease.

The common name Cup Plant is in reference to the stout leaves that join at the stem, forming a cup that will hold water.  Birds, especially goldfinches, are attracted to the water and also eat the seeds. Bumblebees and honeybees use parts of the plant for nesting, while  Short-tongued bees, wasps and flies frequent the flowers for pollen and nectar.  

When propagating from seed, this plant may not produce flowers until its second season.  Once established, the plant will have created deep roots, making it somewhat difficult to remove or transplant. Some specific plants have been known to live for nearly 100 years. Young offshoots from the main plant can be more easily removed and/or transplanted. Both tall and large, this plant is good for prairie, native or wildflower gardens, and naturalized areas. They will actively reproduce by the abundance of seeds, and they have the ability to spread throughout the landscape.