Cup Plant can grow between 1 – 2.5 metres in height and a patch of it in flower is quite spectacular.

It is native to eastern and central North America.

It grows on river banks, and open floodplain forests. I found these not far from the Don River.

The pairs of upper leaves are united at the base to form a cup. The Latin perfoliatum refers to a leaf which has its margins entirely surrounding the stem in such a fashion that the stem seems to pass through the leaf.

The flowers are between 11 and 14 cm wide.

These flowers provide a rich source for bees and the cultivation of honey.

The Latin word Silphium goes back to antiquity for this type of plant which was used as a seasoning, perfume, as a aphrodisiac, or as a medicine..

Miles Hearn