Rattlesnake Master

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Eryngium yuccifolium

A memorable plant, both for its name and its oddly appealing appearance. Although the flowers resemble thistles, Rattlesnake Master is actually in the parsley/carrot family, and is a host plant for Black Swallowtails. A native perennial, it is commonly found on tallgrass prairies, flowering mid-summer to early fall. The spiny leaves are somewhat similar to yucca plants. Give this drought tolerant, tap-rooted plant a permanent location in your prairie garden, as it transplants poorly once it is established. The root was used as an antidote for rattlesnake bites amongst some Native Americans, hence the name. Perennial, full sun, dry soil, 2-4’ height.

in 3″ re-used plastic pot