Compass plant Silphium laciniatum
ABOUT
Commonly known as the compass plant, Silphium laciniatum is a noteworthy plant with striking characteristics. The most prominent feature is its leaves, which are deeply divided into narrow, pointed lobes, resembling the shape of a compass needle, and this trait contributes to its common name. These lobes can vary in number, giving a somewhat fern-like appearance to the foliage. The compass plant's large leaves primarily orient themselves in a north-south direction, a unique adaptation thought to minimize sun exposure during the hottest part of the day. This is a testament to its clever survival strategy in its native habitats. Furthermore, the compass plant produces vibrant, yellow sunflower-like flowers, each with a central disk surrounded by a fringe of yellow ray florets. These blooms are not only visually appealing but they also serve as a food source for pollinators, contributing to the biodiversity of the area. The stems of the compass plant are robust and bristly, often holding the leaves and flowers aloft. The plant's overall structure is typically sturdy, allowing it to withstand the environmental conditions where it grows. The root system is particularly deep, providing the compass plant with stability and access to subterranean water sources. This enables the plant to endure periods of drought, contributing to its resilience in a variety of ecosystems. The seeds produced by the compass plant are equally sturdy, with a design that facilitates wind dispersal, allowing the plant to propagate over considerable distances. Overall, the compass plant is a fascinating specimen, well-adapted to its environment with distinctive leaves, beautiful flowers, and a robust overall structure.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Compass Plant, Cutleaf Silphium, Compass Flower, Polar Plant, Pilotweed, Rosinweed, Turpentine Plant.
Common names
Silphium laciniatum.
ToxicityTo humans
Compass plant, Silphium laciniatum, is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of toxicity from consuming or coming into contact with the plant. As with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, and it's always prudent to be cautious when handling or ingesting plants that are not typically used for food or medicine.
To pets
Compass plant is not commonly known to be toxic to pets either. There is limited information regarding its effects on animals, but there are no widespread reports of poisoning in pets such as dogs and cats. As with humans, it's important to watch for any individual reactions in pets that might suggest an allergy or sensitivity, and to keep pets from ingesting large quantities of any non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-8 feet [0.9-2.4 meters]
Spread
2-4 feet [0.6-1.2 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators - Silphium laciniatum, commonly known as compass plant, is favored by bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for many ecosystems.
- Drought resistance - The compass plant is well-suited for xeriscaping and can thrive in dry conditions, making it valuable for water conservation in landscaping.
- Soil stabilization - Its deep root system helps to prevent soil erosion, making it ideal for planting on slopes and in areas prone to erosion.
- Native plant gardening - As a plant native to North America, it contributes to preserving the local biodiversity when included in gardens and restoration projects.
- Wildlife habitat - The compass plant provides shelter and food for various wildlife species, contributing to a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
- Ornamental value - With its tall stature, bright yellow flowers, and distinctive leaves, the compass plant adds visual interest to landscapes and gardens.
- Low maintenance - Once established, the compass plant requires minimal care, making it a convenient choice for busy gardeners and large-scale plantings.
- Educational interest - Due to its unique characteristic of orienting its leaves north-south to minimize sun exposure, it can be used as an educational tool to discuss plant adaptations.
Medical Properties- Diuretic: Traditionally, Silphium laciniatum, commonly known as compass plant, was used for increasing the flow of urine.
- Antifebrile: The plant was believed to help reduce fever.
- Expectorant: Compass plant may have been used to help expel phlegm from the respiratory tract.
- Wound healing: It was sometimes applied to wounds, possibly for its purported antimicrobial or healing properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Compass Plant sap can be utilized as a chewing gum substitute. The resinous sap has an aromatic flavor and a sticky texture similar to chewing gum.
- As a form of potential biofuel. Certain studies suggest that Compass Plant, due to its efficient use of sunlight, may be a candidate for bioenergy production.
- Insect repellent. The strong fragrance of Compass Plant can be used to deter certain insects, although this use is not scientifically proven.
- Soil erosion control. Its deep root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in areas prone to soil degradation.
- Garden specimen for educational purposes. Because of its interesting behavior of aligning its leaves north-south, it can serve as an educational tool in gardens to illustrate plant responses to sunlight.
- Dye extraction. The leaves and flowers might potentially be used to extract natural dyes for textile and craft purposes, though this is not a common application.
- Cultural symbols. In the past, the Compass Plant has been used symbolically by Native American tribes and could be incorporated into cultural regalia or art for its significant place in native plant lore.
- Floral arrangements. The tall and striking flowers can be used as part of floral arrangements or as dried flowers for long-lasting displays.
- Nectar source for beekeeping. The flowers of the Compass Plant are very attractive to bees and can provide an excellent source of nectar for honey production.
- Landscape architecture. Because of its unique leaf orientation and height, it can be used in landscape designs for visual interest and to create structured looks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Compass Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Compass Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Medicinal Properties: As one of its common names is "Compass Plant," Silphium laciniatum has historically been associated with healing and medicine because early settlers in America would use the plant for various remedies.
- Guidance and Direction: The name "Compass Plant" also suggests symbolism surrounding direction and navigation, as its leaves have a tendency to align themselves in a north-south direction, which some people historically used for orientation.
- Resilience: Native to prairie habitats, this plant's ability to thrive in difficult and dry conditions represents resilience and endurance through challenging circumstances.
- Rarity and Value: Silphium laciniatum, while not the same species, shares its name with the ancient and now-extinct Silphium, which was highly valued in classical antiquity for its scarcity and various uses, potentially indicating themes of preciousness and worth.
WaterCompass Plant requires deep but infrequent watering to mimic its natural prairie habitat. Aim to water the plant every one to two weeks, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on the soil dryness and the weather conditions. Ensure the soil is well-drained, as standing water can lead to root rot. During the growing season, the plant might need more water if there are extended periods of drought. Cut back on watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy.
LightCompass Plant thrives in full sun conditions, meaning it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this plant is a location where it can receive unfiltered, continuous sunlight throughout the day, which is vital for its growth and flower development. Avoid areas that are shaded for extended periods, as this can affect its ability to bloom and maintain robust health.
TemperatureCompass Plant prefers temperate climates and can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. Extreme heat or cold outside of these ranges can stress the plant and affect its growth.
PruningPruning Compass Plant is not usually necessary, but it can be beneficial for shaping the plant or removing damaged and spent foliage. It is best to prune when the plant is dormant, in late fall or early winter. Cut back any dead or damaged stems to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage new growth in the spring. Pruning also helps to manage the plant's size and can prevent it from becoming too top-heavy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCompass plant prefers a soil mix that is well-drained and fertile, with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A mixture of loam, peat moss, and sand can create an ideal environment, with additional organic matter to enhance fertility.
RepottingCompass plant, being a perennial, does not need frequent repotting. It can often be left undisturbed for several years unless it outgrows its container, in which case it can be repotted in the spring.
Humidity & MistingCompass plant is tolerant of various humidity levels and does well in the average humidity found in its native prairie habitat. Humidity control is generally not required for this resilient wildflower.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and do not overwater.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil, and space adequately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleCompass plant (Silphium laciniatum) begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are adequate. Seedlings develop a taproot and basal leaves during their first year, establishing a rosette that can withstand drought and temperature fluctuations. In subsequent years, the plant enters a vegetative stage, growing a tall, sturdy stalk with deeply cut leaves that orient north-south to minimize sun exposure, hence the common name. After reaching maturity, which may take several years, the compass plant blooms in mid to late summer, producing yellow daisy-like flowers attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers develop into achenes, a type of seed that disperses in the fall, allowing the plant to reproduce and start the cycle anew. In ideal conditions, compass plants can live and continue this cycle for several decades due to their deep root systems.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
Propogation: Compass plant, Silphium laciniatum, is most commonly propagated through seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in fall or early spring. The cold stratification process, which involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures before sowing, can increase germination rates. To accomplish this, seeds can be mixed with moist sand and stored in a refrigerator for about 30 to 90 days, approximating winter conditions. Once stratified, the seeds are sown directly into the garden or started indoors before the last frost date. They should be planted at a depth of about 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) and kept consistently moist until germination, which can take 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors into well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
