Eryngium yuccifolium (Rattlesnake Master)

Eryngium yuccifolium, rattlesnake master, or button eryngo, is a hardy native found in the lower half of Virginia. Wild populations are common in central states, but becoming scarce in Virginia, as human disturbance and loss of grassland habitat reduces viable homes for this species. It's gained popularity in home gardens due to its interesting foliage and preference for poor dry soils, and unique, pollinator-drawing flowers.

Neither a thistle nor a yucca, Eryngium are part of the carrot (Apiaciae) family, with a deep taproot that breaks down through clay, sandy and rocky soils. It has attractive and thick blue-green foliage, which was once used dried for weaving and cordage by Native Americans. The common name "Rattlesnake Master" can be of concern to some, but this refers to the plant's use medicinally to treat snake bites around the 1700s. It neither draws in nor grants control over slithering friends.

Clusters of white pom-like flowers sit atop 2-5 foot long stalks. The blooms have a strong honey smell and are dripping with nectar, attracting 180 documented varieties of pollinating insects. Eryngium yuccifolium is also an uncommon host plant for black swallowtail butterflies. The dried seed heads often stay up during most of fall and winter, and seeds are sometimes consumed by songbirds such as finches.

This species prefers well draining medium to dry moisture; lean, xeric, and infertile soils, and may flop in loamy gardens. It can tolerate seasonal flooding, but not standing water. It also tolerates heavy root competition in a plant community, making it excellent for meadows and prairies, as well as pollinator gardens.

Some associated companion species include little bluestem, splitbeard bluestem, purple lovegrass, Liatris squarrosa, field or pasture thistle (Cirsium discolor or pumilum), Appalachian sunflower (Helianthus atrorubens), ricebutton aster (Symphyotrichum dumosum), pussytoes (Antennaria), and Rudbeckia hirta.

The dry seed heads are sharp and prickly in winter. Its deep roots don’t like being disturbed so it’s best not to relocate after its established (usually after 1 to 2 years) but young plants can be carefully relocated.