Calotropis Gigantea Seeds Giant Milkweed

Product Introduction

Calotropis gigantea, commonly known as Giant Milkweed, Crown Flower, or Swallow-Wort, is a hardy, fast-growing perennial shrub with beautiful star-shaped flowers in shades of purple or white. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, this drought-tolerant plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties, pollinator attraction, and ornamental appeal. It thrives in hot, arid conditions and is an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes, butterfly gardens, and erosion control.

Why Choose Calotropis Gigantea?

• Drought & Heat Tolerant – Thrives in dry, sandy, and rocky soils with minimal care.
• Attracts Pollinators – A nectar-rich plant that draws butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.
• Medicinal & Traditional Uses – Used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for various therapeutic benefits.
• Low Maintenance & Hardy – Grows well in poor soils and requires little watering or fertilization.
• Ornamental Appeal – Produces unique, long-lasting flowers and silvery-green foliage year-round.

How to Grow and Care for Calotropis Gigantea

Seed Sowing & Germination

• Best Time to Plant: Start seeds in early spring or summer when temperatures are warm.
• Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours to enhance germination.
• Sowing Depth: Sow ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers sandy or loamy soil with good drainage and a pH of 6.0-7.5.
• Germination Time: 7-21 days at temperatures of 75-85°F (24-29°C).

Transplanting & Growth

• Once seedlings have 2-3 sets of leaves, transplant them to larger containers or directly into the ground.
• Space plants 3-5 feet apart for healthy growth.
• Prefers full sun exposure for optimal flowering and foliage development.

Maintenance & Care

• Watering: Water sparingly; once established, it tolerates drought well.
• Fertilization: Requires minimal feeding; apply a light balanced fertilizer once in early growth.
• Pruning: Prune to shape the plant and remove dead or damaged branches.
• Pest & Disease Resistance: Naturally resistant to most pests; its milky sap deters herbivores.

Benefits of Growing Calotropis Gigantea

• Supports Butterfly Conservation – A host plant for Monarch butterflies and other pollinators.
• Thrives in Harsh Conditions – Ideal for arid, coastal, and poor-soil areas.
• Medicinal Properties – Traditionally used in herbal remedies.
• Soil Improvement & Erosion Control – Deep roots help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
• Evergreen Foliage – Provides year-round greenery and blooms.

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Calotropis gigantea
• Common Names: Giant Milkweed, Crown Flower, Swallow-Wort
• Plant Type: Perennial shrub
• Sun Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
• Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy, with broad leaves and thick stems
• Height & Spread: 6-15 feet tall, spreading 4-8 feet
• Hardiness Zones: USDA 9-11