Allamanda cathartica aka Golden Trumpet

Taxonomy

Allamanda cathartica, also known as golden trumpet, common trumpetvine, and yellow allamanda, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. Native to Brazil, this tropical evergreen climber or shrub does not twine or have tendrils or aerial roots. It can be pruned into a shrub form or left to sprawl to a height of 20 feet if not pruned. The city of Canóvanas, Puerto Rico has even adopted it as its official flower, known locally as canario amarillo. With glossy lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls of 3-4, the plant blooms in summer and autumn with large golden yellow flowers that open from bronze-tinted buds. It is often grown in large pots in conservatories. The Golden Trumpet plant, an exotic tropical shrub, is a favorite for outdoor gardens and can also be cultivated indoors in containers. It is known for its spectacular blooming in summer. Growing up to 10-20 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide, the Golden Trumpet plant is a fast grower, gaining up to 20 feet in a single season. Its flowers, which are both spectacular and fragrant, attract Hummingbirds when grown in nature. The plant produces small fruits that contain seeds needed for further propagation. However, it is important to note that the plant's juice or milky sap is toxic to humans and pets, although it is still used in medicine as a laxative.

Common names

Golden Trumpet, Allamanda, Yellow Allamanda

How to care for Golden Trumpet

Difficulty

Golden Trumpet requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Golden Trumpet should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Golden Trumpet loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Golden Trumpet requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Golden Trumpet will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Golden Trumpet is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.


More info:
Wikipedia