When one sees Compass Plant it is often safe to assume that it is within a remnant native prairie or is near an area that has retained many of the native prairie plants.  It can be an “indicator species” that hundreds of other native prairie plants may be nearby, as well.  However, Compass Plant can be easily seeded and often occurs on roadside sites with considerable history of disturbance—as long as there is a nearby seed source, or benefactor! Compass plants are beacons for prairie enthusiasts in Midwest landscapes where there isn’t much prairie left.

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This native perennial grows from a woody taproot and extends its flowering stock 4 to 8 feet high. It is one of the largest-leaved plants in the prairie.  The large lower leaves often orient in a north-to-south direction, hence the common name of Compass Plant.

The stem, when cut or broken, exudes a resinous sap that was reportedly used as chewing gum by Native American and pioneer children. Livestock consume the plant out of existence in most native rangelands.  Thus, its existence is often limited to native prairie hay meadows, ungrazed odd areas on farms and ranches, and along roadsides.   It generally flowers in July and August.

AOK's executive director has established it in all of his CRP fields planted to restore“rare and declining” habitats.

All photos made along Highway 13 miles 2 to 4 northeast of Manhattan in Pottawatomie County, and in one of Ron Klataske's CRP fields in Riley County planted to native grasses and forbs.

All photos taken by Ron Klataske


To nominate a native wildflower, or to send photos of a native roadside wildflower, click here