A long-lived, slow-growing giant known for having some of the largest leaves of any native plant. The foliage stays low to the ground in a dramatic clump, while the smooth, leafless flower stalks skyrocket upward, topped with bright, sunflower-like blooms.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Medium; exceptionally drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand or Rocky soil
Mature Height up to 9 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time July – September
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 2 – 4 feet
Massive Leaves: The leaves can grow up to 18” long and 12” wide. They are stiff, leathery, and have a texture like sandpaper. Because they are held vertically to minimize sun exposure, they are incredibly efficient at surviving hot, dry summers.
Stems: Unlike its cousin, the Compass Plant, Prairie Dock has completely smooth, leafless flower stalks.
Roots: It grows a massive taproot that can reach 10–15 feet into the earth. This makes it very drought resistant, but it also means you must pick its forever home carefully, as it cannot be moved once established.
Pollinators: The yellow flowers attract large butterflies, honeybees and bumblebees.
Birds: Because the stalks are so strong and tall, they serve as excellent hunting perches and birds love the seed.
Pro Tip: Plant it at the very back of your border. The massive leaves provide a solid green "wall" at ground level, while the yellow flowers dance high above your New England Aster and Ironweed.
A long-lived, slow-growing giant known for having some of the largest leaves of any native plant. The foliage stays low to the ground in a dramatic clump, while the smooth, leafless flower stalks skyrocket upward, topped with bright, sunflower-like blooms.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Medium; exceptionally drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand or Rocky soil
Mature Height up to 9 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time July – September
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 2 – 4 feet
Massive Leaves: The leaves can grow up to 18” long and 12” wide. They are stiff, leathery, and have a texture like sandpaper. Because they are held vertically to minimize sun exposure, they are incredibly efficient at surviving hot, dry summers.
Stems: Unlike its cousin, the Compass Plant, Prairie Dock has completely smooth, leafless flower stalks.
Roots: It grows a massive taproot that can reach 10–15 feet into the earth. This makes it very drought resistant, but it also means you must pick its forever home carefully, as it cannot be moved once established.
Pollinators: The yellow flowers attract large butterflies, honeybees and bumblebees.
Birds: Because the stalks are so strong and tall, they serve as excellent hunting perches and birds love the seed.
Pro Tip: Plant it at the very back of your border. The massive leaves provide a solid green "wall" at ground level, while the yellow flowers dance high above your New England Aster and Ironweed.
