Cup Plant

Silphium perfoliatum

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Type

Trees, Shrubs, & Vines

Forbs & Flowers

Grasses, Sedges, & Rushes

Conditions

Sun

Shade

Wet

Dry

Land Use

Obligate Wetland Plant almost always occurs in wetlands.

Facultative Wetland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Facultative Plant occurs both in wetlands and in non-wetlands.

Facultative Upland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Obligate Upland Plant almost always occurs in non-wetlands.

The bright yellow, mid-summer blooms of the Cup Plant are attractive to bees, and the seeds that are formed in the fall are a favorite for many bird species. The name refers to a cup that is formed by the leaves, which surround the stem. These cups fill with water and create a natural bird bath. The very deep roots of this species are good at breaking through tough, clay soils. Cup Plant reaches heights of 4-8 feet and can be some+what aggressive.

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Details

Plant Type

Forbs & Flowers

Conditions

Sun

Wet

Native to Kentucky?

Native to Kentucky

Land Use

Facultative Occurs both in wetlands and in non-wetlands.

Project Uses

Bioswale / Rain Garden / Green Dry Basin

Wetland Restoration

Tendency to Spread

Medium

Height (ft)

3-8

Flower Color

Yellow

Fall Showy?

Flowering Time

July-Aug