permaculture

[Bil88@aol.com]

In a message dated 97-10-27 15:16:43 EST, you write:

<< Does anyone know the species name and any particulars about "Cup Plant",
 which I believe is a Silphium? Did I hear you mention this one once, Dan?
 >>

Silphium perfoliatum (cup plant) is in Composite family and is square stemmed
perennial, 3-8 ft tall, with a flower like a small sunflower (July to Sept.
here).  Opposite leaves join together around the stem to form a distinctive,
water-holding cup.

We planted some here (by digging some roots from an abandoned patch) in a
demonstration swale at Rodale Institute in SE PA and it has done well this
rather dry summer.

Roots may have medicinal properties.

Bill Heasom