Silphium lacianatum
Family: Asteraceae
Herbaceous perennial, slow to reach full size and extremely long-lived.
Native to the American prairies. The large, deeply lobed leaves are
very impressive, having adapted specifically to rise above and compete
with tall prairie grasses. The multiple bright yellow sunflower-like
blossoms rise up on tall stems and turn their faces to the East, hence
the names “Compass Plant” and “Rosin Weed.” The stems are heavy, thick,
hairy and green, glistening with gum drops. An absolutely striking indigenous
plant. Especially at the location of scarification or bruising, the
leaf and root will exude tears of fragrant and bitter gum which is a good
expectorant and effective treatment for dry, chronic cough. Also
freshens the breath, but imparts a strong odor to the urine (probably promotes
excretion of toxins, but this is not proven). The Dakota, Omaha and
Pawnee tribes gave the root to their horses as a tonic, to prevent “heaves”
and also believed in the effectiveness of burning the dried root during
storms to prohibit lightning strikes. Cultivation: Easy.
The seed is papery but a surprisingly dependable germinator. Sow
in a flat or pots in the spring, and let the seedlings get pretty big before
you transplant out to the garden. Likes full sun and regular garden
soil. Space plants 2 feet apart. Grows from 5 to 10 feet high.
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