Giant Milkweed

Calotropis gigantea

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Apocynaceae
Genus:
Calotropis
Species:
Calotropis gigantea

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub
Height:
12-20 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Bloom Colors:
lavender, white
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Native Range

United States: Guam, Hawaii, U.S. Minor Outlying Islands

Host Plant for Caterpillars

⚠️Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
poor, sandy, well-drained soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
tolerates saline and alkaline conditions