Prairie Dock
Silphium terebinthinaceum
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Silphium terebinthinaceum, commonly known as Prairie Dock, is a tall perennial featuring a basal clump of very large, rough, heart-shaped leaves. In summer, tall, nearly leafless stalks rise well above the foliage, bearing bright yellow, sunflower-like flowers. This species is notable for its dramatic architectural form, with huge basal leaves and towering flower stalks. Its deep taproot makes it extremely drought-tolerant and a valuable plant for prairie restorations and naturalistic gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring
- Keep soil moist until germination, about 2 weeks
- Space plants 24 inches apart for good air circulation
- Water regularly during first growing season
- Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Prefers full sun and well-drained sandy-loam soil for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers
- Do not disturb roots unnecessarily
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Prairie Dock questions
What zones can Prairie Dock grow in?
Prairie Dock is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Prairie Dock deer resistant?
Yes — Prairie Dock is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Prairie Dock bloom?
Prairie Dock typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Prairie Dock need full sun?
Prairie Dock does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Prairie Dock drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Prairie Dock handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Prairie Dock with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
