Allamanda cathartica, commonly known as Golden Trumpet or Yellow Bell
Allamanda Plant Description and Care Tips
Botanical Name: Allamanda cathartica
Large full grown plant in bloom. 3 Gal Size Plant. No pot included
Common Names: Golden Trumpet, Yellow Bell, Buttercup Flower
Description:
Allamanda cathartica, commonly known as Golden Trumpet or Yellow Bell, is a vigorous tropical evergreen shrub or climber admired for its stunning yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. These blooms are typically large, about 4-5 inches in diameter, and have a rich golden color with a slight funnel shape, making them highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant's lush green foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for the bright flowers. Allamanda can be grown as a shrub or trained to climb over trellises and arbors, making it a versatile addition to any garden.
Care Tips:
Light:
Allamanda thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light can result in poor flowering and leggy growth.
Water:
Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season (spring and summer), ensure the soil is evenly moist. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.
Soil:
Allamanda prefers well-draining, fertile soil. A mix of garden soil and organic compost works well. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much water.
Temperature and Humidity:
This tropical plant thrives in warm, humid conditions. Ideal temperatures range between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or brought indoors during colder months in temperate regions.
Fertilization:
Feed Allamanda with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This encourages robust growth and prolific flowering.
Pruning:
Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and encourages new growth. Prune back after the flowering period to control size and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Pests and Diseases:
Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Propagation:
Allamanda can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take 6-inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
Toxicity:
All parts of the Allamanda plant are toxic if ingested, so it should be planted away from areas where children or pets may interact with it.
Ideal Uses in the Garden
Landscape Accent: Use Allamanda as a focal point in tropical-themed gardens.
Climber: Train it on trellises, arbors, or pergolas for a spectacular display.
Container Plant: Suitable for large containers on patios and balconies.
Hedges: When pruned regularly, Allamanda can form a dense, flowering hedge.