The name Rattlesnake Master (Eryngium yuccifolium) is misleading. Originally so named by pioneers because they thought it a remedy for Rattlesnake bites. Instead, the best use of the yucca-like leaves has been as shoe material by Native Americans. I have always remembered its name because passing by these plants, one needs to do so carefully since the umbels (flower clusters) are quite sharp and dangerous, much like the Rattlesnake. Copyright 2023 Pamela BreitbergRattlesnake Master is happiest in the mesic prairie. It does best when left alone, because, as most prairie plants, it has a large taproot making transplanting often unsuccessful. Read more about this fascinating plant. Copyright 2023 Pamela Breitberg
