Cup Plant
Silphium perfoliatum
A common species of bottomlands and wet areas. Unique leaf structure collects and holds water in “cups” along the square stems. During dry times of summer many birds and pollinators will visit these watering holes. Cup plant has high forage value and is readily consumed by all classes of livestock. Research has concluded that cup plant can serve as a greenchop of silage crop. Consider adding cup plant to prairie plantings and pastures in low, wet areas and in riparian restorations. Flowering occurs in August. Yellow flowers are clustered at the top of the plant and make a beautiful display when this plant occurs in large colonies.
- Planting date: Dormant seeding, November – January
- Stratification: 60 days
- Height: 48-96+ inches tall
- Moisture: wet to average
- Sun Exposure: Full
- Planting Rate: 2 pounds per acre in mixes, 15 pounds per acre alone
