Eryngium yuccifolium
Button eryngo or rattlesnake master
A unique and eye-catching plant for a dry, sunny site. Slightly spiny leaves are arranged in a rosette that resembles Yucca. Flower stems shoot skyward in summer and are topped with thistle-like bluish silver flowers. An architectural addition to the perennial border or meadow. Found in moist and dry sandy soils in open woods, fields, and praries; Virginia to Minnesota, south to Texas and Florida.
Height4-5 Feet |
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Spread1-2 Feet |
Bloom Color
Light BlueUSDA Hardiness Zone 5-9
Interesting Notes
James Adair, an 18th-century Indian trader, was one of the first to document medicinal uses of Rattlesnake Master. He recounted tales in which Indians chewed the root, blew it on their hands, and then handled rattlesnakes without any damage.-hort.net
Growing and Maintenance Tips
Definitely an accent plant, although care must be taken not to make groupings too excessive. Clusters of three should be sufficient for most landscapes. This species is best kept in the rear of the border flower stalks can reach up to 5' in height.
In mulched or fertilized situations blooms will be much more prolific, possibly requiring staking on less-established plants. -hort.net
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