Wholeleaf Rosinweed
silphium integrifolium
Also known as: ["Rosinweed","Wholeleaf Rosinweed"]
Overview
A robust perennial wildflower native to North America, known for its large, entire leaves and yellow composite flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Silphium |
| Botanical Name: | Silphium integrifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in open, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with moderate fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing dead or weak growth.
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 sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew in shaded areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even growth; use reflective mulch to enhance light in shaded spots; monitor for sunburn in intense conditions.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize deep watering to encourage root growth.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Hardy to USDA zones 4–8, tolerating winter lows to -30°F (-34°C) with proper mulching.
Mulch to insulate roots; water early to reduce heat stress; adjust care based on seasonal extremes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid. For division, dig up clump.
- Separate healthy sections.
- Replant immediately.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for cuttings; direct sunlight for divisions after initial establishment.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; garden soil for division.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for cuttings.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks; divisions establish quickly in the growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruners, sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings; harden off divisions before planting outdoors.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to healthy buds or remove entire stems at the base. Deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation and appearance. Light pruning after flowering can encourage reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; cut above healthy buds; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; 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. Silphium integrifolium is generally hardy and does not require frequent repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; allow drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing without protection.
Solution: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or flower abortion during extreme heat, especially with poor water access.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering frequency; use shade cloth in intense heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility before fertilizing; use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply lightly, following package dilution rates, and avoid fertilizing in late fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSilphium integrifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce adverse effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSilphium integrifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce adverse effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSilphium integrifolium is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Silphium integrifolium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, tolerating drought once established.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is a great attractant for bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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