Silphium laciniatum, Compass Plant

Small yellow sunflower-like blooms with only a few rays grace this long-lived perennial. The aromatic large leaves (to 2 ft.) are strongly divided. It takes three to five years to begin blossoming, then blooms July to August. Attracts birds. It's worth the wait!
Grow specs: 3-12 feet. Most average soils. Full sun. Stratify 30 days at 41 degrees F. or plant in fall.

Medicinal uses are as a general tonic and to treat such conditions as asthma, coughs, lung ailments, worms and gonorrhea.   (Photo © Steven Foster)
$3.00

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