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-deciduous 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.
*One (1) Mature, well rooted starter size plant
*Growing in and and shipped in a 4 inch diameter plastic pot
*Plants will generally average a minimum of 6 to 12 inches tall
*Unlikely to have bloom or bud on arrival
*Tropical recommended for USDA Zones 10 and 11 (Cold protection required in all zones)
Condition: One (1) Well rooted, starter size plant w/ 4 inch diameter root zone. Plant will be a minimum of about 6 to 8 inches tall and unlikely to have bloom or bud at the time of shipping. May be shipped bare, wrapped root ball w/o pot.
*Limited Conditional Warranty: Warranty is limited to guaranteeing plants will arrive safely and in good and healthy condition, and is conditioned on Seller receiving prompt notice (within 24 hours of delivery) of any problem with the condition accompanied by photo validation. No other additional, extended or long term Warranty is expressed or implied.
- Brand: Emerald Goddess Gardens
- Common Name: Giant Milkweed
- Bloom Form: Five petal waxy
- Mature Size: 8 to 10 feet
- Fragrance: None
- Suggested Uses: Focal, accent, urban, butterfly garden, potted
- House Plant Adapative: NO
- Country of Origin: USA
- Limited Conditional Warranty: Healthy Arrival
- Extended Long Term Warranty: None
- Manufacturer:Emerald Goddess Gardens TM
- Climate: Tropical
- Color: Lavender Purple
- Special Features: Butterflies, salt tolerant, long-lived bloom, gnarly trunk
- Species: Calotropis Gigantea
- Sunlight: Best in full sun
- USDA Hardiness Zone: 10,11
- Watering: Moderate