Rattlesnake master is pollinator host plant
The rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium) is a sun-loving, native wildflower that can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions. It can be found throughout the eastern United States. The species epithet yuccifolium, meaning “yucca-like leaves,” is a reference to the plant’s rosette of linear-shaped leaves that resemble the foliage of yucca species. Although the leaves resemble yucca, Eryngiums are actually members of the carrot family. While rattlesnake master generally prefers habitats with moist soil conditions, its extensive root system also allows it to survive during periods of drought. The plant puts on a beautiful display of white flowers during the summer. At first glance each globe seems like a singular flower, but if you look closely, many tiny white flowers cluster together to form the unique globes that sit atop 3-5 feet tall flowering stems. Rattlesnake master is a host plant for an assortment of native pollinators, including the black swallowtail butterfly, monarchs and skippers, and other butterflies often stop by to collect nectar. Other floral visitors include bees, wasps, beetles and flies.
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