Silphium perfoliatum, the cup plant, cup-plant or compass plant, is a species of flowering plant native to eastern and central North America. It is an erect herbaceous perennial with triangular toothed leaves, and daisy-like yellow flower heads in summer.
The typical height of S. perfoliatum plant ranges from 1-2.5 m (3-8 ft). The first flower develops on the tip of the main stem, then many more flowers develop on side branches.

The flowers, which appear from midsummer to autumn (fall), look very similar to sunflowers, but smaller.

Silphium perfoliatum is able to establish colonies due to its central taproot system and shallow rhizomes. A multi-rhizomed clone originating from a single seed is believed to be 15 years old. The roots found in botanical gardens have been estimated to be more than 50 years old. S. perfoliatum has an extensive root system and does not transplant well except when very young.

This plant is highly adapted to endure extreme weather and inhospitable conditions. For example, during the winter, the roots remain dormant and can survive temperatures as low as -30 C (-22 F).

Type: Hardy perennial

Height: 4-8

Height: 200 cm

Location: Sun

Seeds per packet: 10