Crown Flower (Calotropis gigantea)

Also known as: Giant milkweed

The crown flower (Calotropis gigantea) is known for its striking appearance and was cherished by Queen Liliʻuokalani, the final monarch of Hawaii. Its unique blooms feature outer petals that curl back, unveiling a crown-like structure within. It's commonly used in leis, though the plant's sap can be irritating to the skin and is toxic.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Crown Flower

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

1.5 m to 1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Crown Flower

Quickly Identify Crown Flower

Calotropis gigantea can be identified by its large, ovate leaves, which are grayish-green and covered in fine hair. The flowers are star-shaped with thick, waxy petals, typically white to pale purple in color. The plant also produces large seed pods filled with numerous silky seeds.

Scientific Classification of Crown Flower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Family

Dogbane

Genus

Milkweeds

Species

Crown Flower

Planting and Growing of Crown Flower

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every day

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

75-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Crown Flower?

Calotropis gigantea requires watering approximately once a month, with about 1000 milliliters each time. This ensures the soil is moist but not waterlogged, allowing the roots to absorb necessary moisture without causing root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Crown Flower? ›

What should I do if my Crown Flower is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Crown Flower? ›

How to save an overwatered Crown Flower? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Crown Flower?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Calotropis gigantea flourishes in full sun. In this range, it can achieve its full potential in growth and blooming, developing stronger and more resilient structures that support its large flowers.

What type of light does Calotropis gigantea prefer? ›

How can you ensure optimal light for Calotropis gigantea? ›

What benefits does Calotropis gigantea get from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Crown Flower?

Ideal Temperature: 75 ~ 85℉

The ideal temperature range for Calotropis gigantea is between 75°F and 85°F. This range allows the plant to thrive by providing the warmth necessary for optimal growth. In this range, the plant's metabolic processes function effectively, promoting healthy leaf production and vigorous growth. Maintaining temperatures within this range ensures that the plant can absorb nutrients efficiently and resist diseases.

What Soil is Best for Crown Flower?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Calotropis gigantea flourishes in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Effective drainage ensures excess water drains away, avoiding water accumulation that could lead to plant health issues. This is crucial for maintaining robust root systems. While it is hardy and can thrive in nutrient-poor soils, adequate nutrients can enhance growth and flowering. Balanced nutrient availability aids in optimal plant development and vibrancy in its blooms. Soil should be porous enough to allow oxygen to reach the roots, facilitating healthy respiration. Root aeration is critical for preventing anaerobic soil conditions that can harm the plant. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Crown Flower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Calotropis gigantea requires moderate fertilization to thrive. For liquid fertilizers, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, about 10-15 ml per liter of water. Apply evenly around the root zone, ensuring the solution penetrates the soil. Avoid fertilizing too close to the stem to prevent burning. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Crown Flower?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by assessing the overall shape you desire for your Calotropis gigantea. Using clean, sharp tools, remove any dead or damaged branches to promote healthier growth. Trim back any overly long or misshaped stems to maintain a balanced structure. Ensure that cuts are made just above a leaf node or bud to encourage new branching. For Calotropis gigantea, aim to achieve an open-centered structure that allows light to penetrate through the branches. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also minimizes the risk of fungal diseases by improving air circulation. Regular shaping also helps in managing the plant's size efficiently. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Crown Flower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Summer

Collect ripe seed pods from the parent plant, generally during late summer when the pods start to split naturally. Carefully remove seeds from the pod and allow them to dry for a few days before proceeding with planting.

Select healthy stems when taking cuttings, ideally 8 to 10 inches long. Cut just below a node with a sharp, sanitized tool. Remove the lower leaves to prevent rot and allow the stem to be inserted into the soil without obstruction.

For seeds, lightly press them into the soil in seed trays and cover with a thin layer of soil. For cuttings, insert the stem into a potting mix, ensuring the node where leaves were removed is below the soil line to encourage rooting.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Crown Flower plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Calotropis gigantea shows clear signals when it needs repotting: roots start to circle inside the pot, or you notice a decline in growth despite proper care. These symptoms suggest the plant requires more space to extend its roots and access nutrients.

Select a pot that's about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which supports robust root development and prevents root rot.

Use a well-draining cactus mix that provides excellent aeration and mimics the plant's natural habitat. This type of soil ensures excess water drains away, preventing water-related root diseases.

Toxicity of Crown Flower

Is Crown Flower toxic to humans?

The crown flower harbors numerous toxic compounds that can lead to severe illness or even fatality if ingested. Moreover, it can trigger skin dermatitis, characterized by symptoms like redness, itching, and blister formation upon contact with the skin. Every part of this plant is poisonous, yet the highest concentrations of harmful substances are found in the roots and stems. Initial symptoms of internal poisoning typically include a burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and tongue, accompanied by swelling and blisters, which are succeeded by significant gastrointestinal distress, manifesting as vomiting, colic, and diarrhea, alongside weakness, excessive salivation, heart irregularities, bradycardia, and potential shock. In the most critical instances, this may culminate in collapse and death. Given that the crown flower is frequently used as an indoor or ornamental plant in gardens, there is an increased risk of young children chewing on the plant, warranting extra caution.

Is Crown Flower toxic to cat?

Crown Flower presents a moderate toxicity threat to cats. Every part of this plant is poisonous and can create a risk if consumed. Ingesting it may result in signs of physical distress in felines. Cat owners should remain alert when their pets are in proximity to Crown Flower, to eliminate any possibility of ingestion. Should there be any suspicion that a cat has consumed any portion of Crown Flower, it is crucial to promptly obtain veterinary assistance at a clinic to safeguard the health of the affected animal.

Is Crown Flower toxic to dog?

Crown Flower is recognized as having a moderate toxicity level for dogs. Poisoning generally occurs when a dog consumes any part of the plant, which poses serious risks since all parts of the Crown Flower are poisonous. Dogs that ingest any segment of Crown Flower may show symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, irritation in the mouth, and in severe instances, more critical manifestations like breathing difficulties or abnormal heart rhythms. It is crucial for dog owners to ensure their pets do not access Crown Flower, and if there are signs of poisoning, they should promptly seek veterinary assistance to secure the best outcome for their furry friend.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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