American silk cotton benefits from pruning to maintain its shape, promote new growth, and remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. To prune, use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node or lateral branch. Remove any crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. After pruning, water the plant thoroughly and apply a balanced fertilizer to support regrowth. Regular pruning helps American silk cotton stay healthy and vigorous, ensuring a beautiful appearance in your garden.
American silk cotton
- Scientific name
- Calotropis procera
Basic Information
- Apocynaceae Family Calotropis Genus American silk cotton Species
- Apocynaceae > Calotropis > Calotropis procera
- 83%
- The Completeness of This Encyclopedia
Please help us complete the encyclopedia, Terrarium is a encyclopedia service to be completed with everyone in the world. Currently, this page is 83% complete. For more information on how to contribute, please click here.
- Shrub
- Height
- 400cm ~ 400cm
- Flower Color
- Leaf Color
- Anthesis
- spring, summer, fall
- Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun Long hours of sunlight from morning to afternoon Partial Shade A location in the shade of a tree or where either the morning or afternoon is shaded Full Shade A place where there is no direct sunlight
- Full Sun
- Hardiness Zones
This is an indicator to know to which zone each plant can winter. Knowing the zone of each plant gives you an idea of the cold temperature resistance when grown in the ground without a roof. 2: -42.7 to -40.0 3: -39.9 to -34.4 4: -34.3 to -28.9 5: -28.8 to -23.3 6: -23.2 to -17.8 7: -17.7 to -12.2 8: -12.1 to -6.7 9: -6.6 to -1.1 10: -1.0 to 4.4 11: 4.5 to 10.0
- 10
- Cold resistance
- Poor
- Heat resistance
- Excellent
- Habitat of origin
- Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia
- Growth Rate
- Fast
What is American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)?
What is American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
Flower meaning
The flower language frequently used in the United States for the American silk cotton plant is: - Resilience - Protection - Strength - Endurance A typical example is
Calendar of American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
Calendar
American silk cotton thrives in full sun exposure, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It exhibits excellent heat tolerance, preferring temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Cold tolerance is limited, with temperatures below 50°F (10°C) potentially causing damage. During winter, it is advisable to bring the plant indoors or provide protection from frost. Optimum placement includes a south-facing location to ensure maximum sunlight exposure. Overexposure to intense sunlight may lead to leaf scorch, so partial shade can be beneficial in extremely hot climates. Regular watering is essential, especially during hot weather, to maintain soil moisture. American silk cotton's resilience in sunlight makes it a suitable choice for sunny gardens or landscapes.
How to grow American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
Watering
American silk cotton can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and air layering. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings can be taken from healthy stems, treated with rooting hormone, and planted in a soilless mix. Air layering involves girdling a branch, applying rooting hormone, wrapping with moist sphagnum moss, and covering with plastic. To maximize success rates, it is advisable to use a combination of propagation methods. Harvest seeds when the pods split open, take cuttings in the spring, and air layer in the summer.
Soil and Fertilizer
American silk cotton typically blooms in the United States during the summer months, specifically from June to August. The flowers are at their peak in July. The blooming period usually lasts for about 2-3 weeks. To encourage longer blooming, ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Pruning dead flowers can also promote continuous blooming. Maintaining a consistent watering schedule and avoiding over-fertilization can help prolong the flowering season. Additionally, protecting the plant from strong winds and extreme temperatures can prevent premature flower drop. It is essential to monitor the plant's health and address any issues promptly to support healthy blooming.
Sunlight and Place
American silk cotton grows well in full daylight exposure. It requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily at least. The plant has excellent resistance to hot weather. It prefers temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 29 Celsius). Protect it from cold and frost during winter. Keep it above 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 Celsius) as the lowest temperature. Adding water regularly in summer maintains wet soil. Put it where it gets sunshine and the soil drains well for best growth. Although the plant can take strong sunlight, some shade during the most hot time of day may be helpful. Avoid sudden changes in sunlight to prevent stressing the plant.
Advanced Information of American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
Pruning
American silk cotton has two main varieties: variety A with pink flowers and variety B with white flowers. When selecting seeds, choose plump, firm seeds without any signs of damage. For seedlings, look for healthy plants with vibrant green leaves and sturdy stems. Ensure the roots are well-developed and not root-bound. Variety A is preferred for its ornamental value, while variety B is known for its larger flowers. Consider your preference for flower color when selecting between the two varieties. It is essential to choose seeds and seedlings that are disease-free to ensure successful growth.
Planting and Harvest
American silk cotton, also known as Calotropis procera, is a perennial shrub native to North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. It is characterized by its thick, leathery leaves and milky latex sap. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are typically white or lavender in color, attracting various pollinators. Calotropis procera belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant is known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in harsh environmental conditions. It is often used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The fruit of Calotropis procera is a follicle that contains numerous seeds with silky hairs, aiding in wind dispersal. The plant can grow up to 6 feet in height and is relatively easy to cultivate in well-drained soil. Its striking appearance and adaptability make it a popular choice for landscaping in dry climates.
Propagation
The flower language commonly used in America for the American silk cotton plant is: - Elegance - Wealth - Prosperity One typical example is "Elegance," symbolizing the refined beauty and grace associated with the American silk cotton flower. Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flower_language
Pests and Diseases
For the American silk cotton plant, watering frequency should be adjusted based on seasonal changes. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant every 7-10 days, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In fall and winter, reduce watering to every 2-3 weeks to mimic its natural dormant period. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out from the bottom of the pot. Monitor soil humidity levels by inserting a finger into the soil; if it feels dry up to 1-2 inches deep, it's time to water again.
Habitat of American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
Habitat
Toxicity of American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
Health Benefits
- edible
- Inedible
- Toxic
- toxic
NO DATA
Toxic for dogs and cats
NO DATA
Q&A of American silk cotton (Calotropis procera)
- Is there a recommended way to choose?
American silk cotton has two main varieties: red and white. The red variety typically produces vibrant red flowers, while the white variety produces white flowers. When selecting seeds, choose plump, firm ones without any signs of damage. For seedlings, opt for ones with healthy green leaves and a strong stem. Ensure the roots are well-developed and not root-bound. Selecting seeds and seedlings that are disease-free is key to promote healthy growth. Conduct research on the specific requirements of each variety to ensure successful cultivation. Learning about the variations between the red and white types can assist in choosing the most fitting choice for your yard. Understanding the differences between the red and white varieties can help in selecting the most suitable option for your garden.
- Is there a recommended way to choose American silk cotton?
American silk cotton thrives in well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. It prefers sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in early spring before new growth begins. Apply the fertilizer again in mid-summer to support the plant's growth during the active growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production. Monitor the plant's growth and adjust the fertilizer application accordingly. Ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged to promote healthy growth. Regularly check the soil quality to maintain optimal conditions for American silk cotton.
- How have American silk cotton fibers been traditionally used for textiles and other applications?
American silk cotton plant, which is known as Calotropis procera by scientists, has traditionally been used in making comfortable, warm mattresses, pillows, and furniture coverings because its fibers are soft, light in weight, and good at preventing heat loss. In addition to being made into cloth, the fibers can also soak up oil spills and reduce noise. The milky sap of the plant has been utilized in conventional remedies and its wood for building and burning. So this species serves many purposes, showing that it is a useful and multipurpose plant.