Cup-plant Silphium perfoliatum

Common cup-plant is a native wildflower in the Asteraceae (daisy) family.  It may self-seed.  It typically grows to around 6', however, can grow to reach 9' tall.  

It is commonly found in open woods, lake borders, ditches, meadows, prairies, and thickets in the Midwest and Upper Midwest. In NC, it is restricted to the Peidmont and Mountains, where it is rare.

The common name Cup Plant is in reference to the stout leaves that join at the stem, forming a cup that will hold water.  Birds, especially goldfinches, are attracted to the water and also eat the seeds. Bumblebees and honeybees use parts of the plant for nesting.  Short-tongued bees, wasps and flies frequent the flowers for pollen and nectar.  

Although it is clay soil tolerant, the preferred soil for planting is loam-based.  

The lower leaves can drop during periods of drought.  The leaves and buds can turn brown, grow stunted and flowers may fall off in response to drought or disease.

When propagating from seed, this plant may not produce flowers until its second season.  Once established, the plant will have created deep roots, making it somewhat difficult to remove or transplant.  Young offshoots from the main plant can be more easily removed and/or transplanted.

Both tall and large, this plant is good for prairie, native or wildflower gardens, and naturalized areas.  Reproducing by the abundance of seed, they will spread throughout the landscape.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Red aphids are occasionally found on the underside of the leaves.  A top-heavy plant, the stem can topple during high winds.  It self seeds easily and can be aggressive.