Polarplant
Silphium laciniatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
48"–96" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, IA, IL and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Polarplant is a tall native wildflower that can reach 8 feet in height with deeply lobed leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers. It blooms from summer through early fall and is drought tolerant once established. This is a dramatic prairie plant that makes a bold statement in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Polarplant 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 appears wild and uncontrolled
- Can look weedy when dormant
- May be mistaken for a weed by neighbors
Wildlife value
The large yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the long blooming season. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
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.
Does Polarplant fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.