Asclepias curassavica aka Tropical Milkweed
Taxonomy
Common names
Tropical Milkweed, Bastard Ipecacuana, CottonbushHow to care for Tropical Milkweed
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Tropical Milkweed, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Tropical Milkweed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Tropical Milkweed is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Bastard Ipecacuana is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Bastard Ipecacuana with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Tropical Milkweed with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Tropical Milkweed prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Tropical Milkweed grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Tropical Milkweed’s native range is Tropical S. America, but widely naturalized in many areas of the Tropics.
More info:
Wikipedia