4. Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum) This 6 to 8 foot tall native
perennial has a unique feature that makes it a star in
Beneficial Borders. The leaves wrap all the way around the
stems, forming a deep cup that collects dew and rainwater.
Beneficial insects and small birds can easily use the leaves as
landing pads, and then drink from the cups. Cup plant is an
outstanding ornamental, with large attractive leaves and
clusters of yellow flowers in mid to late summer that are highly
attractive to many insects. It's hardy to zone 4 or 3. To start
seeds, sow in fall, or store in damp sand in the refrigerator
for 6 to 8 weeks before planting in spring.