This native plant with 4 to 10-foot flower stalks towers above the landscape throughout northwest Ohio.

“Prairie Dock is a beautiful native species that is found in the eastern United States, and is present throughout Ohio, but particularly common in the northwest part of the state,” Rossford resident Bill Heban said.

“The flower stalks grow from its base and form an impressive display.”

It can be distinguished from other members of the Aster family by its vase-like rosette of large, spadeshaped basil leaves that measure up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide, he noted.

Along with being beautiful, it also is useful, Mr. Heban said.

“As is true for many native plants, Prairie Dock had medicinal uses in Native American culture, including a tea brewed from its long taproot.”

He photographed this plant in the Oak Openings region of Lucas County.

“But you can see Prairie Dock locally at W.W. Knight Nature Preserve–there is a fair amount to the right as you enter the preserve,” he added.

A Rossford native, Mr. Heban is a wildlife lover and long-time photographer specializing in native fauna and flora of the Midwest.

His stunning work has won numerous awards and has been featured in many publications.