Rattlesnake Master

Eryngium yuccifolium

Rattlesnake Master is the most architecturally striking native perennial we grow. The stiff, yucca-like leaves edged with sharp teeth rise in a basal rosette, then send up tall stems in summer bearing round, silvery-green flower globes that look like something from a Dr. Seuss illustration. The visual effect is structural, almost otherworldly, and unmistakable in any planting. Touch the silvery flower heads and they feel almost metallic. Insects are drawn to them in large numbers regardless. native bees, wasps, and beetles treat each globe as a landing platform. The plant is completely deer-resistant (the spiny leaves make that obvious) and thrives in hot, dry, rocky or sandy soil where other perennials fail. It will become a statement plant in any sunny border, meadow, or gravel garden.