White Rattlesnake-root (Nabalus albus)

White Rattlesnake-root

Nabalus albus

White Rattlesnake-root is a tall, slender perennial reaching 1 to 5 feet in height, with nodding clusters of pale greenish-white flowers that bloom in late summer. It grows in moist woodlands, wetland edges, and thickets. The plant is known for its deeply lobed leaves and its association with native pollinators, particularly bees. It is well-suited for naturalized woodland gardens and shaded native plantings. Nabalus albus is formerly known as Prenanthes alba.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	30
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	24
Bloom month(s)	August, September
Bloom Color or Type	White, Pink
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.