Summary: Calotropis gigantea (giant milkweed) is a plant in the Apocynaceae family. Verdica documents 0 traditional uses, 0 phytochemical compounds, and 0 herb-drug interactions for this species.
Native to parts of Southeast Asia, India, China, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Nepal, Crown Flower or Calotropis gigantean is a fast-growing, large shrub that reaches up to 4 m tall with clusters of white or lavender waxy flowers. The leaves are light green and oval. Crown flower produces a durable fiber known as 'Bowstring of India' used in making ropes and carpets among others. The plant reportedly has antifungal and insecticidal properties. In traditional medicine, crown flower is used as treatment for common diseases such as fever, coughs and colds, eczema, rheumatism, nausea, and diarrhoea. It yields poisonous latex that is used in poisoning arrows. The latex is also used for treatment for sprains, boils, body pains, and pimples. The bark is used for neurodermatitis and syphilis. Mature seed pods are sources of floss that have a wide range of uses. The wood is used as fuel and made into charcoal. Note. Sometimes misspelt as: Calotropis giganteus
| Sunlight | Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering | Moderate — some species are succulent-like |
| Soil | Well-drained, sandy or loamy |
| Hardiness Zone | Mostly tropical (USDA 9-12) |
Explore the full profile of Calotropis gigantea in the Verdica app — including detailed traditional uses, phytochemical data, care guides, and more.
Open in Verdica →