Antelope-Horn Milkweed (Asclepias viridis)

 

This wildflower is a member of the Milkweed Family (Asclepiadaceae).

A perennial herb 10-30" tall with greenish flowers 1" wide, purple center on erect stalks, 5 ascending or spreading corolla lobes. Bloom time May thru June. Look for this favorite plant of the white crab spider in prairies, barrens, and limestone glades. The plant is also known as a Spider Milkweed for the white crab spider who makes its home on the plant as it can be well camouflaged when on the flowers. The spider preys on insects that visit the flower clusters, and when the flowers are not in bloom, it can eat enough prey to increase its mass ten fold (from 40mg to 400 mg in two weeks).