Button Eryngo

Eryngium yuccifolium

Physical Characteristics

Eryngium yuccifolium is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Connecticut to Florida, west to Texas and Minnesota

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Diaphoretic Diuretic Emetic Expectorant Febrifuge Infertility Sialagogue The plant is diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic (in large doses), expectorant and febrifuge{46, 61]. A decoction of the roots has been found useful in cases of exhaustion from sexual depletion, with loss of erectile power, seminal emissions and orchitis[207]. A tincture of the roots is used in the treatment of female reproductive disorders[222]. The pounded roots are used as a diuretic[213]. An infusion of them is used to reduce fevers[213]. Chewing the root increases the flow of saliva[222]. The plant is used as an antidote to snakebites[257]. The roots are chewed and applied as a poultice to the bite[213, 274].

Known Hazards

None known