Silphium laciniatum aka Polarplant
Taxonomy
Silphium laciniatum, also known as compassplant or prairie compass plant, is a tall, low-maintenance perennial that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to North America and is found in Ontario, Canada and the eastern and central United States all the way to New Mexico. Other common names for this rosinweed include pilotweed, polarplant, gum weed, cut-leaf silphium, and turpentine plant. Its eye-catching yellow flowers attract a variety of pollinators, making it a perfect addition to any garden. Traditionally found in the American prairies, compassplant gets its name from the north-south direction in which its lobed leaves tend to point. This helped it maximize its sun and water intake in the semi-arid, sometimes harsh prairie environment. Unfortunately, its natural habitat is decreasing, making it less commonly found in the wild. Compassplant is also a rare houseplant that is easy to grow, but requires regular watering and prefers direct sunlight. It does best in well-draining soil and does not require added fertilizers if repotted every time it doubles in size.
Common names
Polarplant, Compassplant, Compass Plant, Prairie Compass Plant, PilotweedHow to care for Polarplant
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Polarplant is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Polarplant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Polarplant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Polarplant prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Polarplant plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The Polarplant should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Polarplant’s native range is Central N. America - Ohio to Minnesota, south to Alabama and Texas.
More info:
Wikipedia
