Calotropis gigantea (formerly Asclepias) or Giant Milkweed is native to southern Asia and North Africa. It has become naturalized in many other locations, including Western, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Brazil and Australia. Calotropis gigantea grows to a height of 8 to 10 ft. This plant needs a large area to grow and full sun. (Never use pesticides on or around butterfly plants) Giant Milkweed is frequently found growing wild in dry coastal environments. The Giant Milkweed produces clusters of waxy, five petaled flowers in multi-toned purples. The flowers attract several species of butterflies, such as Tiger Butterflies (Danaus chrysippus), Monarchs (Danaus plexippus), and others. Monarchs are believed to have the ability to utilize compounds from the flowers as a defense.