Ram’s Horn

(Proboscidea louisianica)

Ram’s Horn (Proboscidea louisianica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Proboscidea louisianica, commonly known as Ram’s Horn, is an annual herb native to arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts, grasslands, and scrublands of the Southwestern and South Central USA, as well as Northern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) with a similar spread. The plant is characterized by its glandular hairs that carry tiny oil droplets, making the foliage feel oily and emitting a strong, distinctive scent. The flowers have a lobed corolla that can be lavender, purple-cream, yellowish with purple spots, or dull white to somewhat pinkish purple, and they bloom from late spring to early fall. The fruits are elongated, resembling a ram’s horn, and can be quite showy.

Ram’s Horn is valued for its unique appearance and fragrant foliage. It is often grown as an ornamental in xeriscapes and desert gardens due to its drought tolerance and interesting fruit. It requires minimal water once established, thrives in well-drained soils, and prefers full sun exposure. While it is not a common garden plant, it can be used in educational settings to demonstrate adaptations to arid environments. However, gardeners should be cautious as Proboscidea louisianica can become invasive outside its native range. It is also important to note that the plant rarely self-pollinates, relying on pollinators to produce its numerous fruits.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts, grasslands, and scrublands of the Southwestern and South Central USA, as well as Northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Goat’s-Head , Purple-Flower Devil’s-Claw , Aphid Trap , Louisiana Unicorn-Plant , Elephant Tusks , Unicorn-Plant , Aphid Trap , Common Devilsclaw , Devil’s Claw , Bockhorn

Scientific Names: Proboscidea louisianica , Proboscidea louisiana , Proboscidea louisiana subsp. louisiana , Martynia louisiana , Proboscidea jussieui

GBIF Accepted Name: Proboscidea louisianica (Mill.) Thell.