Eryngium yuccifolium

Rattlesnake Master

Photo Credit: Applied Ecological Services

Photo Credit: Susan Martin


Eryngium yuccifolium

Rattlesnake Master

A trendy native perennial, easily recognized by its spiny, round clusters of silvery white flowers that tower above the blue-green, sword-shaped, Yucca-like leaves. Common in tallgrass prairies; best interplanted among native grasses and perennials where it may reseed. Contributes greatly to insect and pollinator diversity. Prefers average to moist soils; a deep tap root increases its drought tolerance.

Plant Details

  • Zone: 4 - 9
  • Height: 3-5
  • Spread: 1-2
  • Exposure: Full Sun
  • Soil Moisture: High Water Needs, Low Water Needs, Moderate Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: Yes, Once Established
  • Bloom time: Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Blue Shades, Green Shades
  • Flower Color: Silver Shades, White Shades
  • Fragrant: No
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Native Species
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: Yes
  • Attracts hummingbirds: No
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: No

Plant Details

  • Zone: 4 - 9
  • Height: 3-5
  • Spread: 1-2
  • Exposure: Full Sun
  • Soil Moisture: High Water Needs, Low Water Needs, Moderate Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: Yes, Once Established
  • Bloom time: Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Blue Shades, Green Shades
  • Flower Color: Silver Shades, White Shades
  • Fragrant: No
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Native Species
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: Yes
  • Attracts hummingbirds: No
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: No

Grower Information

  • PowerPlug Size(s): 32s
  • Optimal Planting Time: Spring
  • Retail Sales Window: Fall, Summer
  • Moisture in Production: Average, Low
  • Requires Shade in Production: No
  • Vernalization Required for Bloom: Yes
  • Vernalization Beneficial: No