Cup Plant, Silpheum perfoliatum

This incredible plant is said to grow from 6 to 8 foot tall. In my own garden, it reached more than 20 feet! The stem is square-shaped when mature, and bears very large opposite leaves that can reach 8” long. The leaves join and circle around the stem to form a cup that can hold water. Numerous varieties of bees, butterflies and wasps visit cup plant for nectar, and pollen, while various birds such as goldfinches eat the seed and drink water from its natural “cups.” The dense foliage provided by a stand of mature cup plants can provide cover for birds. Very important plant for the prairie. 50 seeds/2.50, 1/2 oz./10.00.