Starry rosinweed (Silphium asteriscus, Sp. Pl.: 920 (1753))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 920 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Silphium

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: C. & E. U.S.A.

Description

Starry rosinweed, scientifically known as Silphium asteriscus, is a perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. First described in 1753, this native of Central and Eastern United States graces prairies and open woodlands with its bright and cheery presence.

Characterized by its resinous stems and foliage, the starry rosinweed stands out with its vibrant yellow flowers that resemble small suns dotting the landscape. Each bloom is composed of numerous radiant petals radiating from a central disc, giving it a star-like appearance that justifies its common name.

This hardy plant thrives in well-drained soils and can often be found flourishing in regions that experience full sunlight. It tends to grow to an average height of about 3 to 5 feet, making it a prominent feature in any setting.

Starry rosinweed also supports local ecosystems by attracting various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity and the health of surrounding flora. Its robust nature and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for naturalized gardens and restoration projects aimed at supporting native species.

By cultivating starry rosinweed, gardeners and conservationists not only enjoy its beauty but also play a part in preserving the ecological integrity of their local environment.

Common Names

Eng: starry rosinweed
En: Starry rosinweed

Synonyms

• Silphion asteriscum ((L.) St.-Lag.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Oct 12, 2020 by Jackie Blue (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 20, 2020 by Blaize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2022 by Jill Kleeberg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2021 by David Koser (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 7, 2012 by EOL − Jason Sharp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 24, 2007 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 29, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2007 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 2, 2019 by Bruce Winter (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 1, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 29, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3092582)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:249115-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Silphium asteriscus L.)

Specifications

Growth