Compass Plant (Silphium laciniatum)

Compass Plant –Silphium laciniatum

• A mature specimen of this perennial plant ranges from 6-12′ tall. 
• The preference is full sun and moist to slightly dry conditions.
• The common name derives from the belief by pioneers that the leaves of Compass Plant pointed in a north-south direction. While this is probably true more often than not, it is not always reliable. The resin was used by Indian children as a chewing gum. With its imposing height, interesting leaves, and abundant yellow flowers, Compass Plant is an extraordinary plant. No tallgrass prairie is complete without a sizeable population of them.