This yellow flowering plant in our pig pasture doesn't look particularly special at first glance. It is beautiful but there are a few unique characteristics that set this wildflower apart as one of the extra cool plants on our farm. 

WHAT MAKES THE COMPASS PLANT SPECIAL?

Lets start with the name. Compass plant is not meaningless. The broad leaves on this plant point north and south. This actually helps the plant conserve water on hot days by angling the leaves away from the direct heat of the sun all day long. It is native to the United States and was used by the earliest people here for navigation due to its leaf configuration. 

THE COMPASS PLANT IS DESIGNED FOR THE PRAIRIE

Compass plant is further adapted to handling the heat and potential drought of the prairies by its uniquely designed root system. The main taproot is a couple inches in diameter and can reach depths of up to 16'! This trait makes it very hardy. However, the root system also makes the compass plant very difficult to establish. It takes 3-4 years of maturation before the first flowers appear. It then will flower annually and can live up to 100 years! 

WHY THIS NATIVE PLANT IS HARD TO FIND

So, even though it may not strike the casual observer as anything more than "just another wildflower", the compass plant truly is special. One of the most sought-after plants by native plant enthusiasts, the compass plant is hard to find. The tilling of fields and chemical herbicides used in conventional agriculture have been its enemy. And, in contrast, regenerative agriculture practices, where the soil is only disturbed and chemicals are not used, provide a friendly environment where this amazing plant, once re-established, can thrive.

As always, eat well and stay healthy!