Flame Acanthus

A resilient native native Texas shrub that provides year-round foliage and structure to the landscape. Native across the Chihuahuan Deserts, Edwards Plateau, and Southern Texas Plains, Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii) thrives in local conditions while supporting the surrounding ecosystem. Distinguished by dark foliage that is dull light green, it offers an exceptional visual and tactile texture. During summer and fall, the plant produces orange, red flower clusters. Flowering is followed by brown capsules, black seeds 15 mm that add vibrant visual contrast and seasonal interest. It plays a vital ecological role as a larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies, including Crimson Patch and Texan Crescent. Flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Thriving in caliche, clay, dry, limestone, loam, moist, rocky, sand, and well drained, Flame Acanthus demonstrates outstanding hardiness once established. It requires minimal supplemental water and adapts seamlessly to drought conditions. It features high deer resistance.