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Rattlesnake Master
Seed Packet

Rattlesnake Master

Eryngium yuccifolium
A tallgrass prairie native, rattlesnake master was utilized by early indigenous peoples, who crafted the fibrous leaves into strong textiles. Bone-white flower clusters resembling small thistles contrast with purple-toned plants such as dark-leaved Penstemons, and look lovely with coneflowers in meadows and borders. Easy to grow and adaptive to differing soil conditions.
SKU #S1407
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
57
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
3,
4,
5,
6,
7,
8
Mature Size
4-5' h x 2-3' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Silvery green
Features
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/4"
Sprout Time:
14-28 days after chilling period
Starting Indoors:
Stratify for 30 days for best germination results. Sow in a container, cover with a plastic bag and refrigerate, or mix seed with damp clean sand or vermiculite, bag, and refrigerate at 35-40F. Check often for germination and maintain a lightly moist medium. Transplant any seedlings as they germinate. After the chill period, sow into soilless media and keep at 65-70F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in fall or earliest spring, or wintersow into pots in the shade, covered with a thin layer of clean sand and a wire screen to keep out mice and voles. Check for moisture at regular intervals.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
This summer to autumn bloomer can be set in the ground in spring after all danger of frost has passed or in early autumn.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Rattlesnake master is great for wildflower and rock gardens and perennial borders, where it attracts beneficial insects to the clusters of globe-shaped flowers. Adaptable to differing soil types, it does best in relatively dry, sandy soils in full sun and is helpful in erosion-prone sites. It can sprawl in richer, wet soils and is best in meadow plantings intermingled with sturdy natives and grasses. Place some fine gravel around the crowns to allow for proper drainage during wintertime. Do not divide; this plant has a taproot that should not be disturbed once established.
Final Spacing:
1.5-2'
Water Requirements:
Low Water Use
Watering Details:
Water regularly while establishing, then only during especially dry, hot spells.
Soil pH:
Acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Do not fertilize during the first year of establishment. Subsequently, a springtime application of organic granular fertilizer or a 1/2" layer of compost.
Diseases & Pests:
No major pests or diseases. If aphids appear, spray plants down with a stream of water or spray with insecticidal soap. Occasionally, slugs or snails may be a problem—apply pelletized iron phosphate or some diatomaceous earth to the surrounding soil.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when flowers are fully open.
Growing Guides Winter Sowing Guide
Access here
Access here