Marsh Rattlesnake
Eryngium aquaticum var. ravenellii
This perennial wildflower is a fan favorite for its steely blue, dusty purple, or white flowers that grow in fuzzy globes from mid-summer to late fall. Gardeners often leave these silver-blue flower heads over the winter to add texture and interest. Compared to the straight species or to the commonly cultivated Eryngium yuccifolium, this variety has more slender leaves and more branched flowering stems. This variety is a wonderful and whimsical selection for bog gardens, rain gardens, pollinator gardens, or cut-flower gardens. This plant is imperiled in its native marshland habitat of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; moist soil
Size: 3′ – 6′ tall, 1′ spread
Zone: 6 – 9
Wildlife Value: Pollen supports native bees and soldier beetles; seeds provide food for songbirds
