Rattlesnake
Master Erynguim yuccifolium
Description:
This member of the Umbelliferae, or parsley
family, is a native, warm-season perennial which grows to a height of one meter
or more. It has a little green cast. Rattlesnake master has short, thick roots
and can endure drought.
Leaf: It’s stiff, thick leaves are yucca-like and
spiny-edged making it quite resistant to insect damage. The basal leaves are
shorter.
Flower: The five-parted small, white flowers occur
in round, prickly button-like heads. The flowers have sharp bracts which make
it look and feel rough. The seed heads have an aroma like honey.
Blooming months: July-early August
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Discussion:
Native Americans and early settlers believed Rattlesnake Master could
cure snakebites. This was unfounded. They used the plant for a wide variety of
medicinal uses, including treatment of kidney and liver problems, rheumatism,
and nosebleed. The plant can be dried and used in indoor winter decorations.
Distribution:
This species occurs in both prairies and woods. Rattlesnake Master ranges
from
Native
or Introduced to
Location:
N41048.677’ W089040.972’
Copyright:
© 2004 Nancy Trainor,
References:
Keller, Carolyn. Prairie Plants of
Ladd, Doug. Tallgrass Prairie Wildflowers, The Nature Conservancy, 1995.
Peterson, Roger Tory. Wildflowers Northeastern/North Central
Mohlenbroch, Robert H., and John W. Voigt. Prairie
Plants of
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