Silphium perfoliatum (cup plant)

An excellent plant for wildlife, especially birds. Its cup-shaped leaves even provide water for small animals - watch for chipmunks, finches, and others taking a drink. Host plant for the silphium moth. Typically reaches 8 feet in height but can grow up to 10 feet tall. Spreads quickly by seed.

For small spaces, consider cup plant's less-aggressive cousin: Silphium integrifolium (rosinweed). Or simply pull the seedlings when they appear.