Purple Rattlesnake-root <i>Nabalus racemosus</i>

Purple rattlesnake-root is a distinctive native prairie flower, easy to recognize by its tall stature, rose-purple blossoms, and softly fuzzy buds. It typically appears as scattered, upright plants rather than dense colonies, occurring in sunny prairies with moderately dry to medium soils. Though it may be unfamiliar even to experienced native plant gardeners, this species brings a quiet authenticity to plantings, echoing the open structure and understated character of the prairies it comes from. Note: According to Minnesota Wildflowers “the genus has gone back and forth between Nabalus and Prenanthes; since 2010 Nabalus has more often been the accepted genus.” Size: 3 Feet Sun: Full Soil: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry Bloom Time: July, August Advantages: