Indian-gum
Silphium perfoliatum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Silphium perfoliatum is a tall native forb blooming yellow flowers from July through September across the eastern and central United States. This prairie plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles while tolerating various moisture conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Indian-gum as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
48"–96" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, IA and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Indian-gum is a tall native wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers from summer into fall. This robust perennial can reach 6-8 feet tall and features distinctive leaves that appear to be pierced by the stem. It thrives in full sun with moderate water needs and provides excellent late-season color.
Growing Indian-gum
Grow Indian-gum in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 48 to 96 inches tall and spread 24 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Indian-gum takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely tall height (6-8 feet) exceeds most HOA guidelines
- Can appear wild or weedy to conservative neighbors
- Large spread may overwhelm smaller landscaping areas
Wildlife value
This plant is a pollinator powerhouse, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles with its abundant summer and fall blooms. The seeds also provide food for birds, particularly goldfinches.
Common questions
- When does Silphium perfoliatum bloom?
- Indian-gum blooms from July through September, producing bright yellow composite flowers that attract numerous pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Silphium perfoliatum?
- This native plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting diverse pollinator communities.
- Where is Silphium perfoliatum native?
- Indian-gum is native to 29 states across the eastern and central United States, from the Great Plains eastward to the Atlantic coast and from the Gulf states north to the Canadian border.
- What growing conditions does Silphium perfoliatum prefer?
- This prairie forb thrives in full sun to partial sun with medium to high moisture levels, making it suitable for rain gardens and wet prairie restorations.
- Is Indian-gum toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Indian-gum as toxic to livestock.
- Is Indian-gum HOA-friendly?
- Indian-gum takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Indian-gum? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz