Cup Plant Silphium perfoliatum
ABOUT
Cup plant, as it is commonly known, is a perennial native to large parts of North America. It is distinctive for its square-stemmed, sturdy structure and the way its leaves are fused around the stem, forming a cup-like shape that can hold water after rainfalls. The leaves themselves are broad and slightly toothed, providing a contrasting backdrop for the bright yellow flowers that appear in the summer. These flowers, with their sunny, daisy-like appearance, have a central disc surrounded by petal-like rays that attract pollinators. The cup plant's rough texture and tall presence in landscapes make it a noticeable and valuable plant for wildlife, providing both nectar for insects and a water source for birds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Cup Plant, Indian Cup, Squareweed, Carpenter's Weed.
Common names
Silphium connatum, Silphium perfoliatum var. connatum, Phlomis perfoliata, Silphium laciniatum var. robinsonii.
ToxicityTo humans
Cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no widespread reports of poisoning or adverse effects from ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is always prudent to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants not meant for human consumption without proper knowledge or guidance.
To pets
Cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There is no evidence to suggest that pets suffer from poisoning upon ingesting this plant. As with any non-food plant, ingestion in large amounts could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the novelty of the material, but no specific toxic symptoms are associated with this plant for pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Wildlife Habitat: Cup Plant provides a food source and habitat for various pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Soil Conservation: Its deep roots help prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure.
- Drought Resistance: The plant is well adapted to survive in drought conditions once established, reducing the need for watering.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Cup Plant features tall, sturdy stalks with bright yellow flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and natural landscapes.
- Support for Birds: The leaves can hold water after rain, providing a drinking source for birds and small wildlife.
- Eco-Friendly Gardening: By planting native species like Cup Plant, gardeners can promote a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem.
Medical Properties- Expectorant: The plant has been traditionally used to help expel phlegm from the respiratory tract.
- Antipyretic: Cup plant has a history of use in reducing fever, although modern evidence to support this use is lacking.
- Diaphoretic: It has been suggested that the plant can help to induce sweating, which may be beneficial in some therapeutic situations.
- Anti-inflammatory: Silphium perfoliatum may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for treating conditions associated with inflammation.
- Wound healing: There is anecdotal evidence that suggests its potential use in promoting wound healing, possibly due to the presence of certain compounds that can aid in skin regeneration.
- Antibacterial: Some sources claim that the plant has antibacterial effects, potentially providing a natural means for preventing or treating bacterial infections.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cup Plant's leaves can be used to create molds for papermaking, providing a unique texture and pattern to the handmade paper.
- Children can use the large leaves in nature-inspired craft projects, such as creating imprints in clay or plaster.
- The stems of Cup Plant have been historically used as a natural drinking straw by cutting a segment between the leaf joints.
- Because of its sturdy stem, Cup Plant can serve as a natural trellis for climbing plants in a garden.
- The deep cup-like formations made by the leaves hold water, which can be used as an emergency drinking source for small wildlife and birds.
- Photographers and artists may utilize Cup Plant as a subject to study the interaction of light and water in nature.
- The tall, strong stalks of Cup Plant can be used in creating rustic floral arrangements or as a base for wreaths and other decorative items.
- Dried stalks of the plant may be used in construction of small-scale models or for crafting, such as making homemade pens or totemic figures.
- When dried, the seeds and dried flower heads can be used in creating natural sound instruments, like shakers or rain sticks.
- Cup Plant's heavy roots can be used in controlling erosion along stream banks or slopes due to their soil-binding properties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe cup plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe cup plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Connection: The unique “cup” formed by the joined opposite leaves of Silphium perfoliatum, generally known as Cup Plant, symbolizes connection and unity as it often collects water that benefits wildlife.
- Healing: Historically used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans, the Cup Plant is often associated with healing and therapeutic properties.
- Generosity: As the Cup Plant generously provides water to birds and insects, it represents the spirit of giving and abundance.
- Resilience: This hardy perennial's ability to thrive in various conditions and its tendency to spread, symbolizes resilience and adaptability.
- Support: The strong, supportive stems that hold the cup-shaped leaves reflect the notion of support and reliability in relationships and communities.
WaterCup plant, or Silphium perfoliatum, is a robust plant that prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate some dryness once established. During the first growing season, water the cup plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time to establish a strong root system. After establishment, reduce watering frequency, but ensure it gets about 1 gallon every two weeks, especially during prolonged dry spells. In particularly hot and dry climates, increase the frequency to weekly watering. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightCup plant thrives in full sunlight, so it is best to place it in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It can tolerate some light shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to grow leggy and reduce its bloom. The brightest spot in a garden, such as an open area without any tree canopy or tall structures that cast shadows, is ideal for the cup plant.
TemperatureThe cup plant is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures found across its native regions. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -30°F and is comfortable in summer temperatures up to 90°F. The ideal temperature range for the cup plant is between 60°F and 80°F, where it can thrive and produce its characteristic blooms.
PruningCup plant can be pruned to control its height and promote bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Pruning can be done annually, cutting back the plant by a third to half of its height. This helps to maintain a more compact growth form and can prevent the tall stems from flopping over. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers can encourage a second bloom and prevent excessive self-seeding.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCup plant, or Silphium perfoliatum, thrives in a loamy soil mix with good drainage. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this perennial. To create the best soil mix, combine two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part sand or perlite.
RepottingCup plant typically does not need frequent repotting as it prefers to be left undisturbed. Repotting may be required every 3-5 years if it outgrows its container or the soil becomes depleted.
Humidity & MistingCup plant is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and thrives in average outdoor conditions. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown in its natural environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow cup plant in a sunny spot with a large container.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; full sun; space 2-3 ft apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum) begins as a seed, which, after being dispersed, requires a period of stratification through cold weather to germinate in spring. Upon sprouting, the seedling establishes a deep taproot and grows into a rosette of leaves during its first year, focusing on root development rather than flowering. In subsequent years, the Cup Plant develops a tall, sturdy stem and large, opposite leaves which fuse at the base to form a 'cup' that can hold water. It typically blossoms in late summer, bearing bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that attract a variety of pollinators. After pollination, it produces achenes, which are dry, one-seeded fruits that are distributed by wind or wildlife, completing its reproductive cycle. Finally, as a perennial, the Cup Plant dies back to the ground in winter, with its root system surviving to regenerate the next spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Cup plant, or Silphium perfoliatum, is most commonly propagated by seed. The ideal time for sowing these seeds is either in the fall, to allow for a natural stratification process over the winter, or in the spring, after a period of artificially stratifying the seeds in your refrigerator for approximately a month to mimic winter conditions. To propagate by seed, one should plant them about 1/4 inch deep into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until germination, which typically occurs within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have reached a sufficient size, they can be transplanted into the garden. It’s worth noting that the cup plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can adapt to a wide range of soil conditions, making it a resilient choice for many gardeners.
