Milkweed, Cotton Bush, Swan Plant

gomphocarpus fruticosus

Also known as: ["Asclepias fruticosa","Gomphocarpus cancellatus"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Gomphocarpus Category: Flowers

Overview

A shrubby plant with distinctive, hairy seed pods and milky sap, native to Africa but widely naturalized elsewhere.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Gomphocarpus
Botanical Name: Gomphocarpus fruticosus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in warm, sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years; after flowering to promote new growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is not compacted.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat; reduce watering in cooler months.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; seeds can also be used but may be slower to establish.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Gomphocarpus fruticosus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Gomphocarpus fruticosus can result from water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Gomphocarpus fruticosus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Gomphocarpus fruticosus due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Gomphocarpus fruticosus is toxic to cats due to its cardenolide content, which can lead to severe cardiac and gastrointestinal distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy difficulty breathing tremors cardiac arrhythmias death in severe cases
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from cats. Seek veterinary care immediately if poisoning is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The cardenolides in Gomphocarpus fruticosus are toxic to dogs, affecting cardiac function and causing severe gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness abdominal pain cardiac arrhythmias death in severe cases
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from dogs. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Gomphocarpus fruticosus contains cardenolides, which are toxic glycosides that can disrupt cardiac function and cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain heart palpitations difficulty breathing death in severe cases
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Gomphocarpus fruticosus toxic to humans?

A: Yes, it is toxic if ingested due to its milky sap containing cardenolides.

Q: Does this plant attract butterflies?

A: Yes, it is a host plant for monarch butterflies.

Q: How should I care for Gomphocarpus fruticosus?

A: Provide full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; it is drought-tolerant once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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