Silphium perfoliatum 30 PCS fresh seeds, cup plant, cup-plant, Herb seeds

🌱 Silphium perfoliatum — Cup Plant, Cup-plant

Silphium perfoliatum is a perennial herb with fresh seeds, offering a unique opportunity to grow this rare and fascinating plant. As a member of the Apiaceae family, it boasts several key characteristics that make it an attractive addition to any garden or collection.

🌿 Botanical Description

Silphium perfoliatum is a perennial plant with straight, tetrahedral, branched at the top, hollow, light green stems that can reach up to 400 cm in height. The root system is powerful, consisting of the main root and numerous shoots. The inflorescence is complex, consisting of multi-tiered branches. Individual inflorescences are baskets with bright yellow petals, 3-4 cm in diameter. Each stem produces up to 50-60 baskets, which are located in the upper part of the plant. The fruits are elongated, heart-shaped, flattened, brown achenes, about 10-12 mm long. The weight of 1000 achenes is 18-20 grams.

🌾 Growing & Agrotechnics

• Sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Stratification is not required.
• Germination temperature: 18-22°C (64-72°F). Germination time: 1-3 weeks.
• Soil type: Sandy loam to clay loam. Soil pH: 6.0-7.0. Drainage: Well-draining.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season. Fertilization: Feed with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8. Frost tolerance: Moderate.

🗺️ Natural Growing Areas

Silphium perfoliatum is native to Europe and Western Asia. It thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures and well-draining soil. Typical habitats include dry meadows, rocky slopes, and sandy plains. Altitude range: 0-1000 meters.

✨ Interesting Facts

Silphium perfoliatum has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant's nectar-bearing tissue is a unique feature, attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects. In ancient times, the plant was highly valued for its culinary and medicinal properties. Today, it is a rare and sought-after addition to any herb garden or collection.