prairie dock
Silphium terebinthinaceum var. pinnatifidum
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Yellow Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
watering
Prairie dock should be watered twice a week unless there is a steady period of rainfall. Water thoroughly–about 1 inch of water–so that the entire root zone is saturated. Be sure to water slowly and evenly over the entire area. The best time to water is in the morning hours, as this helps minimize water loss due to rapid evaporation.
sunlight
The prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum var. pinnatifidum) is a robust, sun-loving perennial plant native to the mid-western prairies and tallgrass prairies of North America. It prefers full sun and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. The prairie dock is best grown in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimum growth and flowering success. The hours of sunlight will vary depending on the season, with more required in summer and less in winter. In general, it is safe to assume that the plant should receive at least 6 hours of good, direct sunlight each day throughout the growing season (Spring through Fall).
pruning
Prairie dock is best pruned in late fall or early spring. To keep the plant looking its best, prune the previous year’s growth back by 2-thirds. Cut back the tallest stems to promote bushier growth and thin out overcrowding of stems. Be sure to leave at least 5-7 stems for a healthy, full look. To help keep the Prairie dock fuller on the top and less open on the bottom, prune out any central or older, weaker stems that are too low. It’s also a good idea to lightly prune back any flowering stalks to encourage new stalks to emerge.
