Product Review
Calotropis gigantea (formerly Asclepias) or Giant Milkweed is native to Asia. It has become naturalized in many other locations, including Western, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Brazil and Australia. It's natural habitat is usually along roadsides, and on previously developed lots and acreage. The plant is a fast growing, soft wooded, evergreen or semi-decidous tree-like shrub with soft, large oval shaped gray green leaves with an odd heart shaped base and hairy underside. The trunk is covered with a thick, corky, white to gray, furrowed, gnarly bark and frequently grows at odd twisted angles as if pushed by the wind, or other unseen force. It will grow in a wide range of soil types, is very drought tolerant once well established and also tolerant of salt spray. Giant Milkweed is frequently found growing wild in dry coastal environments. It is a lowland plant that does not typically grow at elevations above about 1000 feet. The Giant Milkweed produces clusters of waxy, five petaled flowers in multi-toned purples, lavender and white. The flowers are frequently used for tassels and leis. The flowers attracts several species of butterflies, such Tiger Butterflies (Danaus chrysippus), Monarchs (Danaus plexippus), and others. Monarchs are believed to have the ability to utilize compounds from the flowers as a defense. A fibrous non edible fruit like seed pod follows the flower.
- Calotropis gigantea is commonly known as Giant Milkweed or Crown Flower. Opinions on its original native range vary. It can currently be found naturalized in many locations throughout tropical America, the Caribbean, where it can found growing wild in dry coastal environments below 1000 feet in elevation. It is an eye-catching, fast-growing, soft-wooded, tree-like shrub with unusually large, gray-green, downy-textured leaves, and unique purple and blue flowers.
- Clusters of unique crown-shaped lavender-toned flowers are produced throughout the warm season and attract many types of butterflies, including Monarchs, and other pollinators, and are also used for decorations in some cultures. The trunk develops an interesting gnarled appearance, growing at odd twisted angles as if pushed by some unseen force. Branches exude a thick latex sap when cut or broken.
- Care: When mature, plant in fertile, coarse, well-draining soil or potting media in a full sun. Water sparingly to maintain consistent soil moisture, but avoid overwatering. Overly saturated plants will become spotted, weak, thin, and fail to flower as expected. Feed a good quality, slow-release, bloom-boosting fertilizer with the initial planting and annually in spring thereafter. Prune after flowering to control size, shape.
- Indoor Growing: This plant can be grown indoors in conditions similar to those required for succulents. They require a large space, full spectrum of light, warm temperatures, well-draining pots and coarse media. Modifications may be necessary to produce flowers indoors.
- Climate: Calotropis is a tropical plant recommended for growing in Zones 9, 10, and 11. Protection from cold temperatures is required in all Zones for the longest life, best appearance, and earliest flowering. Note that Zone recommendations are based on average temperatures and does not consider other variables.
