Golden Trumpet Vine
Allamanda cathartica
Golden Trumpet
About this plant
Allamanda cathartica, known as the Golden Trumpet Vine, is a tropical vine famous for its large, bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. It climbs or sprawls, making it popular for covering fences or trellises. The plant has glossy green leaves and blooms mainly in warm months. It is admired for its vibrant color and fast growth but needs protection from cold.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Allamanda
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Higher classification
- Gentianales
- Plant type
- Vine
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Brazil
- Distribution
- Native to Brazil, widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide as an ornamental plant.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse, Indoor
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting mix
Watering. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) to support healthy growth and flowering.
Allamanda cathartica is a fast-growing vine that loves full sun and warm temperatures. It needs regular watering but dislikes waterlogged soil. Prune it regularly to keep it tidy and encourage flowering. It can be sensitive to cold and frost.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Layering
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers, glossy green leaves, vigorous climbing habit.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The sap is mildly toxic and can cause skin irritation. Keep away from children and pets to avoid ingestion, which may cause mild stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Allamanda cathartica can cause mild skin irritation in some people who touch its sap. Its pollen is not a major allergy trigger. To avoid reactions, wear gloves when pruning and wash skin if contact occurs.
Common problems
Common problems include yellowing leaves from overwatering, leaf drop if too cold, and occasional pests like aphids or spider mites.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental vine for its showy yellow flowers and fast growth. Used to cover fences, trellises, and walls in warm climates.
Notes
Prune after flowering to control size and shape. Protect from frost and cold drafts. Repot young plants annually to encourage growth.