Calotropis procera, commonly known as Apple of Sodom or Giant Milkweed, is a deciduous shrub native to semi-arid regions, including savannas, desert margins, and wastelands in North Africa, the Middle East, tropical Africa, and South Asia. It typically grows to heights of 6 to 15 feet with a similar spread. This plant is characterized by its large, gray-green leaves, and its clusters of waxy flowers that are white or lavender in color, which bloom throughout the year in its native habitat. The flowers are quite showy and are followed by large, inflated seed pods that release tufted seeds to the wind. The bark is pale and contains a thick, milky sap that is toxic.

Apple of Sodom is valued for its drought tolerance and its striking, ornamental flowers. It is used in xeriscaping, as a windbreak, and for erosion control in suitable climates. In cultivation, it requires minimal water once established, thrives in poor, well-drained soils, and prefers full sun to partial shade. While it can be a useful plant in its native range, it is considered invasive in some regions, such as Australia and the Caribbean, where it can outcompete native vegetation and disrupt local ecosystems. Gardeners should be cautious of its toxic sap, which can cause skin and eye irritation.CC BY-SA 4.0