Silphium laciniatum

Compass Plant (Silphium laciniatum) is a tall, perennial native wildflower known for its deeply lobed, sandpapery leaves that often orient themselves north-south, helping the plant conserve moisture. It typically grows 6 to 12 feet tall and produces large, yellow sunflower-like blooms from mid to late summer. Compass Plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils, tolerating drought once established but benefiting from occasional deep watering, especially in its first year. This prairie species is well-suited for naturalized plantings and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Native range

North AmericaNative here

Bloom time

July – September

Garden location

West Driveway Bed