Antelopehorns

(Asclepias asperula subsp. capricornu)

Antelopehorns (Asclepias asperula subsp. capricornu)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 23" - 36"
High Temp. 92°F - 96°F
Low Temp. 31°F - 38°F

Summary

Asclepias asperula subsp. capricornu, commonly known as Antelopehorns, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open grasslands, prairies, and desert scrub in the Central United States, particularly in Texas and surrounding states. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). Antelopehorns feature a clumping form with stout, upright stems and narrow leaves that spiral around them. The plant is named for its distinctive horn-like seed pods. It produces clusters of intricate greenish-yellow flowers with purplish centers in the spring and early summer, which are highly attractive to pollinators, especially monarch butterflies.

Antelopehorns is valued for its role in supporting butterfly populations, including being a host plant for monarch caterpillars. It is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, wildflower gardens, and naturalized areas. Gardeners appreciate its adaptability to poor, well-drained soils. While it thrives in full sun, it can tolerate partial shade. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open grasslands, prairies, and desert scrub in the Central United States

Other Names

Common Names: Antelope Horns

Scientific Names: Asclepias asperula subsp. capricornu, Asclepias capricornu, Asclepiodora decumbens, Asclepias asperula var. decumbens, Asclepias decumbens, Anantherix decumbens, Acerates decumbens, Anantherix angustifolia, Anantherix nuttaliana

GBIF Accepted Name: Asclepias asperula subsp. capricornu (Woodson) Woodson