Rattlesnake Master (Eryngium yuccifolium)
Eryngium yuccifolium, commonly known as Rattlesnake Master, is a striking native perennial found in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun and is highly tolerant of drought, making it an excellent choice for dry or rocky sites and native prairie gardens.
This unique plant features stiff, sword-like blue-green leaves with spiny edges that resemble those of a yucca, giving rise to its species name yuccifolium. From mid to late summer, it sends up tall, branching stalks topped with spherical, pale green to whitish flower heads that resemble small thistles. These distinctive blooms can reach heights of 3 to 5 feet and provide a bold, architectural presence in the landscape.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Eryngium yuccifolium is a valuable and visually striking addition to prairie restorations, pollinator habitats, and low-maintenance gardens. Its flowers attract a wide array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. Historically, Indigenous peoples used the roots medicinally, including for treating rattlesnake bites—hence the common name. It pairs well with prairie grasses and wildflowers like Blazing Star, Compass Plant, and Purple Coneflower, offering texture, height, and strong ecological value.
Eryngium yuccifolium, commonly known as Rattlesnake Master, is a striking native perennial found in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun and is highly tolerant of drought, making it an excellent choice for dry or rocky sites and native prairie gardens.
This unique plant features stiff, sword-like blue-green leaves with spiny edges that resemble those of a yucca, giving rise to its species name yuccifolium. From mid to late summer, it sends up tall, branching stalks topped with spherical, pale green to whitish flower heads that resemble small thistles. These distinctive blooms can reach heights of 3 to 5 feet and provide a bold, architectural presence in the landscape.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Eryngium yuccifolium is a valuable and visually striking addition to prairie restorations, pollinator habitats, and low-maintenance gardens. Its flowers attract a wide array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. Historically, Indigenous peoples used the roots medicinally, including for treating rattlesnake bites—hence the common name. It pairs well with prairie grasses and wildflowers like Blazing Star, Compass Plant, and Purple Coneflower, offering texture, height, and strong ecological value.
Eryngium yuccifolium, commonly known as Rattlesnake Master, is a striking native perennial found in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun and is highly tolerant of drought, making it an excellent choice for dry or rocky sites and native prairie gardens.
This unique plant features stiff, sword-like blue-green leaves with spiny edges that resemble those of a yucca, giving rise to its species name yuccifolium. From mid to late summer, it sends up tall, branching stalks topped with spherical, pale green to whitish flower heads that resemble small thistles. These distinctive blooms can reach heights of 3 to 5 feet and provide a bold, architectural presence in the landscape.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Eryngium yuccifolium is a valuable and visually striking addition to prairie restorations, pollinator habitats, and low-maintenance gardens. Its flowers attract a wide array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. Historically, Indigenous peoples used the roots medicinally, including for treating rattlesnake bites—hence the common name. It pairs well with prairie grasses and wildflowers like Blazing Star, Compass Plant, and Purple Coneflower, offering texture, height, and strong ecological value.
Bloom: mid- to late summer
Habitats: clay prairies; limestone glades; moist to slightly dry black soil prairies; sand prairies; sandy savannas; thickets; typical savannas
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 5 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: clay; gravel; loam; sand