Milkweed (Gomphocarpus fruticosus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Milkweed on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Milkweed
Gomphocarpus fruticosus, also known as Gomphocarpus or Milkweed, is a perennial shrub from the Apocynaceae family, prized for its distinctive spherical, spiky fruits resembling small "cotton balls" or "silk balloons." Its upright stems and lance-shaped leaves give it a unique appearance, making it ideal for wild-style gardens, xeriscaping, or as a striking specimen in large pots.
Native range
Southern Africa (mainly South Africa)
Care tips
It thrives in full sun and is highly drought-tolerant, requiring infrequent watering once established, avoiding waterlogging. It adapts to poor, well-draining soils, including sandy or rocky ones. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. This is a resilient plant that demands very little maintenance.
How to save a dying Milkweed
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or drooping leaves. Soft, blackened stems. No flowers or seed pods.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Reduce watering if waterlogged. Protect from cold.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot. Temperatures below 10°C. Lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Repot and prune damaged parts.