Rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium) has a long history of use in prairie restorations, meadow plantings, rain gardens and naturalistic combinations. As a taller, summer blooming perennial with very striking form and flowers, it is finding its way in to water-wise landscape mixes and deer resistant plantings. This is an excellent component as an accent in a wildlife garden with its valuable nectar. The spiky, blue-toned leaves are also an ornamental feature and provide both contrast of form and texture with surrounding plantings. I’m a huge fan of the spherical, hovering flowers of this amazing perennial in the garden!
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That is such an interesting and architectural plant. Does anyone ever confuse it with Canadian Thistle? Just curious. It doesn't look that much like it, but others are not as educated on the the differences. I would love to try it in a wildflower garden I am designing. Does it like dry, sandy soils?
Hi Marti! I would imagine some new gardeners might be confused by its "thistle-like" appearance. Those "floating" flowers look great for months and it's vary adaptable even in dry soils. It's height is quite dependent on moisture but very drought tolerant once established. Here's Eryngium yuccifolium in a dry, gravel garden situation at Olbrich Botanical Gardens (Madison, WI) where it's thriving!
Love this plant!
This has been such a "go to" plant for us Doc. Brent Horvath at Intrinsic Perennials (Hebron, IL) also selected and introduced 'Prairie Moon' which is quite a bit more compact at 3' or so. Solid performer!