Giant Calotrope Plant - Akta Plant

The Giant Calotrope (Calotropis gigantea), also known as Rui in Marathi and Aak in Hindi, is a hardy, perennial shrub native to South Asia. Recognized for its broad, pale green leaves and distinctive waxy flowers in lavender or white, it thrives in dry, arid, and saline soils where few other plants survive.

This plant holds medicinal, ecological, and cultural importance. Traditionally used in Ayurveda, its leaves, bark, and latex are believed to have therapeutic properties—though its milky sap is toxic if misused. Ecologically, it supports pollinators and is a host plant for butterflies like the Plain Tiger.

The Giant Calotrope is also revered in religious practices, often used in offerings to deities like Lord Shiva. Its drought resistance and low maintenance make it suitable for landscape greening in challenging environments.