Apocynaceae

Calotropis procera

Common Names: Calotrope

Plant Form: Large upright shrub or small tree. Size: 1-4 m tall. Stem: Green and smooth with milky sap, turning corrugated and corky beige with age. Leaves: In opposite pairs 10-20 cm long, elliptical with heart shaped base, underside with hairs on midvein. Flowers: Purple and white with 5 petals, waxy, in groups of up to 15. Fruit and Seeds: Inflated pod 8-12 cm long, arranged in opposite pairs, rounded base with pointed tip, seeds with parachuting hairs. Habitat: Cleared areas, roadsides, grazing land, savanna. Distinguishing Features: Very distinctive without lookalikes. Impacts: Highly toxic to humans and livestock, outcompetes native plants. Roots can harm turtle nesting activities.