Silphium terebinthinaceum - Prairie dock

Silphium terebinthinaceum, also known as "Prairie Dock", is a persistent herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family. This North American wild plant is a characteristic part of prairie ecosystems and is characterized by its impressive growth form and ecological importance.

Morphology and appearance

Silphium terebinthinaceum is a robust plant that can reach a height of 1.5 to 2.5 meters. Their most striking features are the large, basic leaves that can be up to 60 centimeters long and about 30 centimeters wide. The leaves are heart -shaped to egg -shaped, leathery and with a rough texture. They grow on long leafsticks and form a dense rosette that shadows the floor and minimizes the evaporation.

The upright, unexpected flower stem wears a inflorescence made of several yellow basket flowers. Each flower consists of tongue flowers on the edge and central tube flowers, which together form a striking, radiation -shaped structure. The flowering period extends from July to September, whereby the flowers offer insects such as bees, butterflies and beetles nectar and pollen. After flowering, lonely, dry fruits (ohines) develop that are spread through the wind.

Ecology and habitat

Silphium terebinthinaceum is at home in the central and eastern regions of North America, where it occurs in prairies, open forests and on the edges of the path. It prefers sunny locations with well -permeable, nutrient -rich soils and shows a high tolerance to dryness.

The plant plays an important role in prairie ecosystems. Their deep piling roots, which can reach up to 4 meters into the ground, contribute to the ground stabilization and water infiltration. At the same time, this root system of the plant enables access to deep water reservoirs, which means that it can also survive in dry periods. The thick leaves and the height of the plant offer habitat for various insects and small animals.

Physiological and chemical properties

The adaptation of Silphium terebinthinaceum of drought is shown in the morphology of its leaves, which are covered with a thick tutor and hair to reduce water evaporation. In addition, the plant shows high efficiency in photosynthesis under hot, sunny conditions.

The chemical composition of Silphium terebinthinaceum has been little researched, but like other representatives of the genus Silphium, it probably contains terpenes and other secondary metabolites that have potential medical properties. The specific species name "terebinthinaceum" refers to the resin smell of the plant, which indicates the production of aromatic substances.

Use and cultural importance

Silphium terebinthinaceum has become more important as a ornamental plant in natural gardens, especially in projects for prairie production and in ecological landscape designs. Their impressive growth shape and the striking flowers make them an eye -catcher in wildflower meadows.

Historically, the plant was used by indigenous peoples, possibly for medical or practical purposes, although documented applications are rare. Your role as a valuable wild plant remains undisputed, especially in view of the importance of prairie ecosystems for the preservation of biodiversity.