Prairie Dock
Silphium terebinthinaceum
Prairie dock is found in prairies, glades, and roadsides. This species does well in dry sites and thin soils. Very large leaves are clustered at the base of the plant and are easily recognizable. In mid summer leafless flower stalks begin to elongate and may reach heights up to eight feet. Flowering occurs from July to August. Blooms are sunflower like and bright yellow. From a distance the flowers can appear to be floating. This species is readily consumed by livestock and can diminish over time with poor grazing management.
Planting date: Dormant seeding, November – January
Stratification: 60 days
- Height: 48-96+ inches tall
- Moisture: average – dry
- Sun Exposure: Full
- Planting Rate: 2 pounds per acre in mixes, 15 pounds per acre alone
