Wednesday 24 July 2019

Silphium

A great genus close to the sunflowers that, although often very tall, produce a very compact rootstock and are best displayed among low-growing plants.

Silphium terebinthinaceum
Silphium terebinthinaceum
This and S.laciniatum produce among the biggest, most luxuriant leaves of any hardy border perennial.
Silphium terebinthinaceum
In this case they are huge and heart-shaped (like a Colocasia or Anthurium?) to 12ins across.
Silphium terebinthinaceum
The flower stem is more slender and smooth than laciniatum.
sold out


Silphium simpsonii
Silphium simpsonii
A smaller species with simple green leaves and golden flowers
£8


Silphium laciniatum
Silphium laciniatum
Leaves to 2ft long and impressively lobed, like some huge tropical fern. The stiff bristly upright flower stem is a bonus.
Silphium laciniatum
Easy in any fertile, retentive soil, and best at the front of the border where its stature can be appreciated. Perfect for prairie-style plantings.
£9

Silphium perfoliatum
Silphium perfoliatum
A giant perennial sunflower with lush green foliage and good-quality yellow flowers to 3ins across. Up to 9ft tall.
Silphium perfoliatum
Compact rootstock - not spreading.
£10