Do you recognize this tallgrass prairie plant?

Grand River Wildlife Unit. Mount Ayr, Iowa.

No?

Well, it is a member of the carrot family.

Early European settlers thought its roots could provide an antidote to rattlesnake bites.

They were wrong.

The plant somewhat resembles yucca (soapweed), except that it’s flower is very different.

It’s probably easier to identify from the flower…

Rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium). Tucker Prairie, Missouri.

In a crowded field of distinctive and unique prairie wildflowers, rattlesnake master holds its own. Its spiny leaves and characteristic round white flowers help it stand out, even in prairies, roadsides or flower gardens loaded with many other showy species.  Pollinators seem to appreciate its blooms, and many different insects gather nectar and pollen from them.  Rattlesnake master just barely occurs in Nebraska – reaching into the very southeast corner of the state – but is common in more eastern tallgrass prairies.

The Nature Conservancy’s Kankakee Sands Efroymson Family Prairie, Indiana.

Enjoy your weekend, and have a great Holiday Season!