Prairie Dock - Silphium terebinthinaceum
 
 Silphium terebinthinaceum, commonly known as Prairie Dock, is a native perennial plant known for its tall, sturdy stems and large, coarse leaves. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, typically found in prairies and open woodlands of the central and eastern United States. Prairie Dock blooms from mid to late summer, producing clusters of yellow, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Growing up to 8 feet tall, it forms a clump of basal leaves with deeply lobed margins. The leaves can reach impressive sizes, making Prairie Dock a striking addition to naturalistic gardens and native plant landscapes. This drought-tolerant plant enhances biodiversity and provides habitat for wildlife, including seed-eating birds and butterflies.
 
Photo: Emerson Sapienza