Allamanda (Allamanda cathartica) - Medium

Overview:

Allamanda, also known as the Yellow Bell or Golden Trumpet, is a tropical plant prized for its bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers and glossy green foliage. It's commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers, where it can be trained as a shrub, climber, or ground cover.

Key Features:

• Large, vibrant yellow flowers with a trumpet shape
• Evergreen, glossy leaves that provide a lush backdrop to the flowers
• Can be trained to grow as a shrub or a vine, making it versatile in landscaping

Care Guide:

• Light: Requires full sun to thrive, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Inadequate light can reduce flowering.
• Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allamanda prefers well-drained soil and may suffer from root rot if overwatered. Reduce watering slightly in the winter months.
• Soil: Prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Adding compost or organic matter can enhance soil fertility and drainage.
• Temperature & Humidity: Thrives in warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). As a tropical plant, it prefers high humidity and does not tolerate frost. If grown in cooler climates, Allamanda should be brought indoors or protected during the winter.
• Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). This encourages vibrant blooms and healthy growth. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter.
• Pruning: Prune regularly to control its growth and shape, especially if grown as a shrub or vine. Pruning also encourages new growth and more prolific flowering. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
• Pests & Diseases: Watch for pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Allamanda can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so ensure good drainage.

Size & Growth:

• Mature Height: Can grow up to 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) when trained as a vine, but typically reaches 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) when pruned as a shrub
• Mature Spread: Spreads 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) wide
• Growth Rate: Fast-growing, especially in warm climates with ample sunlight

Usage:

• Ideal for trellises, arbors, and fences when grown as a vine
• Can be used as a striking specimen plant in garden beds or large containers
• Suitable for tropical-themed landscapes, patios, and outdoor living spaces

Additional Information:

• Origin: Native to South America, particularly Brazil
• Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The plant's sap can also cause skin irritation in some people.
• Fun fact: Despite its toxic properties, Allamanda is used in traditional medicine in some cultures, though it should be handled with caution due to its strong cathartic effects.

Pot: The actual pot may vary from the product image.