Weed
Calotropis procera is considered a noxious weed in Australia and Hawaii (US Forest Service, 2011; Parsons et al., 2001). It can be a serious weed in pastures, overgrazed rangelands, and poorly managed hay fields (Francis, 2002). In places where the number of calotropis is small, it is recommended to remove the tree mechanically together with its deep tap-root and lateral roots to prevent the growth of suckers. Light competition with tall weeds, brush, and especially grass may be an efficient way to weaken calotropis and to prevent seed germination (Parsons et al., 2001; US Forest Service, 2011). Chemical control is advisable for larger calotropis colonies. Sowing buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) may help controlling calotropis due to its allelopathic toxicity towards calotropis roots (Parsons et al., 2001).
Soil erosion control, soil improver and afforestation
Calotropis can act as a soil binder and as a nurse crop for more valuable species in afforestation programs (Orwa et al., 2009; Campolucci et al., 1990). It has been used as source of green manure in rice fields (Orwa et al., 2009; Banta et al., 1984).
Other environmental services
Calotropis is considered an indicator of overgrazed, disturbed lands in arid and sub-arid areas (Tezara et al., 2011).
Calotropis roots can be washed, cooked and transformed into a biosorbent for wastewater Cu remediation (Hifsa et al., 2010).
Calotropis extracts, chopped leaves, and latex have shown in vitro and in vivo nematicidal properties (Anver et al., 1992; Charu Jain et al., 1997 cited by Francis, 2002).