giant milkweed
Calotropis gigantea
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
11 - 12
Flowers:
Pale purple or white Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,yellow
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Poisonous To Humans:
Yes
Poisonous To Pets:
Yes
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Watering for a giant milkweed plant should be done 2-3 times per week with a sprinkle or light shower of water. Make sure the soil is moist but not saturated. In summer months, the plant may need a bit more water. During winter months reduce the watering somewhat, but still maintain a constant level of moisture in the soil. When possible, use a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses to deliver water to the roots of the plant, instead of applying water directly to the leaves.
sunlight
Giant milkweed (Calotropis gigantea) prefers full or partial sun, usually receiving 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. When growing in partial shade, the plant tends to be more sparse and leggy. When provided with adequate sunlight, this species produces large, heart-shaped leaves and showy clusters of white and purple flowers. For best growth and flowering, irrigate deeply but infrequently. During the warmer months, water the plant about once or twice a week, although this will depend upon local weather conditions and the type of soil it is planted in.
pruning
Giant milkweed (Calotropis gigantea) should be pruned at least twice a year. The best time to prune this species of plant is in late spring and late summer. In the late spring, prune back dead, damaged, and diseased growth. This will help promote healthy growth and blooming during the summer. This may involve cutting the plant back by up to half its size. In the late summer, prune the plant back lightly to promote growth and flowering for the upcoming season. This will involve cutting back up to a quarter of the size. It is important to avoid over-pruning this species of milkweed, as it may reduce flowering significantly. When pruning, be sure to use clean, sharp shears or loppers as this will help promote healthy growth and prevent infection.
