Giant Milkweed (Calotropis gigantea)

Family: Apocynaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers, Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweetmeat. — The central part of the flower is candied and used as a sweetmeat.; An alcoholic drink is made from the leaves.; The plant yields a manna.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry coastal areas, along the sheltered shores of lagoons, overgrazed pasture land. Woods of dry areas, stream banks from sea level to 1,400 metres in southern China. (Zone 10)