This warm-season, deep-rooted forb is described as an upland species, which prefers sandy, well drained sites (Weaver and Fitzpatrick, 1935). However, it can grow in salty, gulf cordgrass prairie near the coast in Texas. It is found throughout the tallgrass prairie region growing on a variety of soil types. Scattered along the stiff, upright stem of this unusual perennial are tough, blue-green, yucca-like, parallel-veined leaves. Smooth, rigid stems bear thistle-like flower heads made up of small greenish-white florets mingled with pointed bracts. The individual, greenish-white flowers form clusters of unique, globular heads. These occur on branch ends atop the 6 ft. plant. Flower heads develop a bluish cast with maturity. The flowers have a sweet, honey-like smell and attract a wide range of pollinators. The new growth of these plants is palatable to livestock. Rabbits and deer like the young leaves too. Seeds are plentiful and fertile, but pups growing from the roots can be divided for propagation.
The genus Eryngium has been used as medicine since the time of Hippocrates. Extracts of the roots were recommended by 16th century English doctors for liver trouble and other ailments common to older people. Leaf fibers were used to make cordage and sandals. Native Americans used it to treat snake bites, hence the common name "rattlesnake master."
Narrative credit: Warcapps USGS and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Photo credit: Larry Allain
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