Cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) is hard to miss, growing up to 9 feet tall. At the SBG, it can be seen lining the path from the parking area to the demonstration gardens, and throughout the meadow.
A member of the Asteraceae family, this statuesque species boasts bright yellow blooms, and birds love the seeds that follow. The common name comes from the way in which the leaves form a ‘cup’ where they attach to the stem, providing a valuable water source as well. The resinous juices of the plant inspired the genus name Silphium, which is derived from the Greek word ‘silphion’. Silphion, a North African plant with a resinous juice used for medicinal purposes, was so prized that the plant appeared on ancient Greek coins. Juices aside, an easy way to identify cup plant is by its leaves: Rub one between your fingers, and you’ll immediately notice the unmistakable, sandpapery feel.
Silphium grows easily from seed, and is at home in a wide variety of soils, even difficult clay soil. If you like your native plants on the large side, and have room for them to roam, cup plant is for you!
