Prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum)

Also known as: Smooth Prairie-Dock, Lucy braun's rosinweed, Dock-Rosinweed

Prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum) is a robust perennial reaching heights of up to 10 feet. Its signature large, paddle-shaped leaves have a leathery texture, which adds a unique element to garden landscapes. During mid-summer to early fall, it produces tall stalks adorned with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers.

**Key Features:**
1. **Height:** Up to 10 feet.
2. **Leaves:** Large, leathery, and paddle-shaped.
3. **Flowers:** Bright yellow, blooming on tall stalks in mid-summer to early fall.
4. **Habitat:** Thrives in full sun or partial shade.

**Advantages:**
1. **Pollinator Magnet:** Attracts a variety of bees and butterflies with its nectar.
2. **Bird-Friendly:** Seeds serve as a food source for birds like goldfinches.
3. **Drought Resistance:** Deep taproot system ensures minimal watering needs.
4. **Low Maintenance:** Hardy and resistant to pests and diseases.
5. **Soil Health:** Deep roots aid in soil stabilization and prevent erosion.

Prairie dock is ideal for gardeners seeking a tall, resilient plant that attracts wildlife and requires little upkeep.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Prairie dock

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1.2 m to 3 m

Spread

30 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Prairie dock

Quickly Identify Prairie dock

Vibrant yellow sunflower-like blooms, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in diameter.

Rough leaves oriented vertically, up to 18 inches (45 cm) long, with serrate margins.

Dock-like leaves near the base, dark green upper surface, light green underside with hairs.

Flattened achenes, tan or pale brown, 0.2-0.4 inches (5-10 mm), easily wind-dispersed.

Green or reddish stem, up to 10 feet (300 cm), leafless with distinctive branching pattern.

Scientific Classification of Prairie dock

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Rosinweeds

Species

Prairie dock

Planting and Growing of Prairie dock

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Prairie dock?

Silphium terebinthinaceum prefers a moderate watering approach where approximately 500 ml of water is provided per watering session. The goal is to moisten the soil thoroughly without creating excess water pooling, allowing the plant roots to access both moisture and air optimally.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Prairie dock? ›

What should I do if my Prairie dock is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Prairie dock? ›

How to save an overwatered Prairie dock? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Prairie dock?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Partial to full sun encourages optimal growth, with the sun's energy enhancing foliage robustness and flowering potential during the growing season.

How to Achieve Ideal Light ›

Specific Measures for Optimal Light ›

Benefits of Ideal Light ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Prairie dock?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Silphium terebinthinaceum is between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth, allowing the plant to carry out photosynthesis efficiently and maintain healthy metabolism.

What Soil is Best for Prairie dock?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Silphium terebinthinaceum thrives in well-drained soil, preventing root rot and other moisture-related issues. Proper drainage allows for optimal root growth, promoting vigorous plant health and resilience. This plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil that is high in organic matter. Enriched soil provides essential nutrients for robust growth, aiding in the plant's ability to produce abundant foliage and flowers. While good drainage is crucial, the soil should also retain some moisture to support the plant during dry periods. Balanced moisture levels ensure continuous growth and help the plant withstand drought conditions.

How to Fertilize Prairie dock?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Silphium terebinthinaceum, apply a low nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive leaf growth. Opt for a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, using about 1/4 cup per plant monthly during the growing season. This amount should suffice to meet the plant’s nutritional needs without overwhelming it.

How to Prune Prairie dock?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Before starting with pruning, it's essential to understand Silphium terebinthinaceum's growth pattern. This plant features large basal leaves and towering flower stalks, so be sure to identify which parts need attention. Gather sharp shears or pruning scissors. Ensure that your tools are clean to prevent disease transmission. You may also need gloves due to the plant's height and potential sharp edges. Start by cutting back any flower stalks that have withered after blooming. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased leaves at the base, ensuring not to harm healthy growth. Once pruning is complete, water the plant thoroughly. Consider applying a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth, especially after significant trimming in spring. Properly dispose of any plant debris. Compost healthy cuttings if possible, but discard diseased parts to avoid spreading any infections. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Prairie dock plant?

Propagate Time: Spring

Begin by acquiring fresh Silphium terebinthinaceum seeds, as their viability decreases with age. Stratify the seeds by placing them in a moist medium in the refrigerator for 60 days before planting. This process mimics natural winter conditions and breaks seed dormancy, promoting successful germination.

Fill seed trays with sterile potting soil and moisten it evenly. Sow the stratified seeds on the soil surface, lightly covering them with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. Place the trays in a warm, well-lit area, maintaining a temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C). Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to support germination.

Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, typically after 6-8 weeks, they can be gently transplanted into individual pots or a prepared garden bed. Ensure the new environment has well-drained soil and receives full sun. Handle the seedlings carefully to avoid damaging their delicate roots during transplantation.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Prairie dock plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Silphium terebinthinaceum requires repotting when growth slows down or roots start to emerge from the drainage holes. The ideal time to repot is during active growth periods in spring or early autumn. These cues ensure that the plant has the resources it needs to recover from the repotting process effectively.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has sufficient drainage holes. A correctly sized pot encourages healthy growth while preventing waterlogging, which could otherwise lead to root rot. Opt for terracotta pots for better moisture regulation.

Choose a well-drained, sandy loam soil mix. This type of soil will provide the right balance of nutrients and drainage, preventing water retention issues and promoting strong root development. A balanced soil mix mimics the plant’s natural habitat, enhancing its growth potential.

Toxicity of Prairie dock

Is Prairie dock toxic to humans?

Prairie dock exhibits a low level of toxicity to humans. Every aspect of the plant is deemed toxic and ingestion can lead to poisoning. When ingested, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms that suggest mild poisoning. These symptoms may encompass gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Furthermore, one may also suffer from headaches, dizziness, or mild skin irritation. Since prairie dock is not generally eaten as a food source, cases of poisoning are likely the result of accidental consumption. It is crucial for individuals to exercise caution and refrain from eating any components of prairie dock to avoid the emergence of these undesirable symptoms.

Is Prairie dock toxic to cat?

Prairie dock exhibits a low level of toxicity to felines. If cats inadvertently consume any portion of this plant, whether out of inquisitiveness or by accident, they may suffer from poisoning. Exposure to prairie dock can result in a range of general physical discomforts in cats, which may manifest as, though not exclusively limited to, gastrointestinal distress. Given the wide-ranging nature of the plant's toxic effects, it is essential for cat owners to keep all parts of prairie dock inaccessible to their pets. In the event of suspected ingestion, it is crucial for cat owners to promptly seek help from a veterinary facility to effectively address the cat's health concerns.

Is Prairie dock toxic to dog?

The prairie dock plant species is recognized for its mild toxicity towards dogs. Canines may unintentionally consume various parts of the prairie dock, which could lead to potential poisoning. If a dog ingests any section of the plant, as the entire plant is deemed toxic, symptoms that suggest poisoning may arise. Dog owners must remain watchful for indications like gastrointestinal distress or skin irritation, which can develop after exposure to prairie dock. Should a dog ingest prairie dock, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to guarantee appropriate treatment and management of any possible toxic effects.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→