Green antelopehorn
Asclepias viridis · Apocynaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant green antelopehorn: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Green milkweed
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Type
- Perennial herb
- Mature height
- 60 to 90 cm tall
- Flowering
- June to September, greenish to purple flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green
- Hardiness
- Down to -15 °C
- Origin
- North America
Care
Light exposure
Place your green milkweed in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It tolerates bright locations well and grows vigorously with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil and drainage
Prefer well-drained, light to medium soil. Green milkweed adapts to poor soils and tolerates drought once established. Avoid compact and constantly wet soils that promote rot.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year of establishment. Once well-rooted, the plant becomes drought-resistant; water moderately during prolonged dry spells. In winter, reduce watering.
Fertilizing
Fertilizer is not essential. Light spring fertilization with a balanced fertilizer is sufficient if the soil is poor. Avoid excess nitrogen which causes overly vigorous foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and cutting
Cut stems down to ground level in late autumn or early spring, after the last frosts. Remove spent flowers during the season to extend flowering and stimulate new flower production.
Health and pests
Green milkweed is generally hardy. It may occasionally be affected by aphids, though they are not a major concern. Ensure good drainage to prevent fungal diseases in case of excessive moisture.
Did you know?
Green milkweed is an essential host plant for the monarch butterfly: its caterpillars feed on it exclusively and accumulate the plant's toxic alkaloids to protect themselves from predators. This remarkable relationship makes it a valuable ally in ecological gardens across North America.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.