Prairie Dock - Silphium terebinthinaceum

Silphium terebinthinaceum, also known as Prairie Dock, is a perennial wildflower native to Michigan.
Plant reaches 9 (yes 9!) feet tall and flowers from July to September with a yellow blossom.  
 
Although the flower stalks reach for the heavens, most of the plant consists of a cluster of giant showy leaves near the ground (see the third picture).  This allows Prairie Dock to be a dramatic centerpiece without obstructing the view.  
 
Although it will take a few years, this plant will get wide as well as tall. Give it room to fill out by spacing two to three feet from buldings, trees, or favorite plants you do not want to crowd.  While waiting for it to fill in, control weeds by filling in the empty space with a matirix plant such as Prairie Sage.

Praire Dock prefers full sun to grow its straighest, but will tolerate partial shade.  It is suited for medium to dry soil and will grow in clay, loam or sandy soil.  Once established, its deep taproot makes it drought tolerant.  It is a favorite of bees and has large seeds that are sought after by birds, who help disperse the seed.  Deer and rabbit resistant.  Prairie Dock makes a lovely garden showpiece with a lot of drama and texture, and also naturalizes well into meadows or along paths and roads.  Pairs well with Big Bluestem grass.