Whorled rosinweed (Silphium trifoliatum)

Family: Compositae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Silphium trifoliatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 1.8 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweeten the breath. — Dave Jacke in his book Edible Forest Gardens has noted that this plant is edible although we have been unable to find any confirmation.; Other Silphium species are edible for example Silphium integrifolium produces an protein-oil staple Crop and Silphium laciniatum resin is used as a chewing gum to sweeten the breath.

Habitat & North American Range

Open, grassy areas such as prairies, river cobble bars, and roadsides. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6)