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Description
Eryngium Yuccifolium Var. Synchaetum, commonly known as rattlesnake master, is a perennial plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in prairies, savannas, and open woods. The plant has a unique appearance with its tall stem, reaching up to 6 feet in height, and its spiky, blue-grey leaves. It produces small, white to greenish flowers that bloom in the summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Eryngium |
Appearance
The rattlesnake master has a striking appearance with its tall, sturdy stem, and long, spiky leaves. The leaves are blue-grey in color and can grow up to 2 feet in length. The stem is covered in small, thorn-like protrusions that give it a rough texture. The plant produces small, white to greenish flowers that are arranged in a ball-like shape at the top of the stem. The flowers bloom from June to September and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
To care for Eryngium Yuccifolium Var. Synchaetum, you need to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and ensure it is planted in the right hardiness zone.Water: The rattlesnake master is a drought-tolerant plant, so it does not require frequent watering. However, it is best to water it once a week during dry spells.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.Soil: The rattlesnake master prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH. It can tolerate sandy or clay soils.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to grow and bloom.Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eryngium Yuccifolium Var. Synchaetum is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or leaf miners. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust. These diseases can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
The rattlesnake master is native to North America and can be found in prairies, savannas, and open woods. It can grow in a range of soil types and tolerates drought conditions. The plant is an important food source for bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eryngium Yuccifolium Var. Synchaetum poisonous to humans or animals?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.Q: Can I grow rattlesnake master in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it has enough space for its roots to grow and is placed in a sunny location.Q: How often should I fertilize my Eryngium Yuccifolium Var. Synchaetum?
A: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.Q: When should I prune my rattlesnake master?
A: The plant does not require pruning. However, you can remove the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Related Plants
- Eryngium planum
- Eryngium giganteum
- Eryngium alpinum
- Eryngium bourgatii
References
- USDA Plants Database: Eryngium yuccifolium var. synchaetum
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Eryngium yuccifolium var. synchaetum
- North Carolina State University Extension: Eryngium yuccifolium var. synchaetum
