Prairie Dock
silphium terebinthinaceum
Also known as: ["Prairie Dock","Terebinth-leaved Rosinweed"]
Overview
A tall, robust perennial native to North American prairies, known for its large, heart-shaped basal leaves and yellow, sunflower-like flowers on tall stems.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Silphium |
| Botanical Name: | Silphium terebinthinaceum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open areas with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; tolerates occasional wetness but not waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; maximize light exposure in winter.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) when dormant.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid feeding in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (if used).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root directly in garden soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation and appearance; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely and avoid wetting foliage. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or develop brown edges; root systems can suffer damage if soil freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSilphium terebinthinaceum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with its ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSilphium terebinthinaceum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with its ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSilphium terebinthinaceum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Prairie Dock grow?
A: It can reach heights of 5 to 8 feet, with some specimens growing even taller.
Q: Does Prairie Dock require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Prairie Dock suitable for wet soils?
A: No, it prefers well-drained soils and is highly drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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