Contents
Description
Thevetia Ahouai is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the Caribbean and South America, and it is commonly known as Yellow Oleander, Ahouai, or Ahouaï in French. The plant is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall with a spread of 10 feet. Its leaves are dark green and leathery, and its flowers are trumpet-shaped and yellow with a purple center. The plant produces a fruit that is a woody capsule containing seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Thevetia |
Appearance
Thevetia Ahouai has a dense and bushy appearance, with a rounded or oval shape. Its leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and glossy, with a leathery texture. The plant produces clusters of fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that are 2-3 inches long, and they bloom from spring to fall. The flowers are yellow with a purple center, and they attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant also produces a woody capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Thevetia Ahouai is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thevetia Ahouai is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing foliage. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use neem oil to control them.
- Mealybugs: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use rubbing alcohol to control them.
- Fungal Diseases: Thevetia Ahouai is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Thevetia Ahouai is native to the Caribbean and South America, and it thrives in warm and tropical climates. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. The plant is commonly found in gardens, parks, and as a landscape plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thevetia Ahouai poisonous?
A: Yes, Thevetia Ahouai is highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning if ingested. All parts of the plant contain toxic cardiac glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart failure.
Q: Can Thevetia Ahouai be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Thevetia Ahouai can be grown in a container as long as it is placed in a well-draining soil mix and receives full sun.
Q: Does Thevetia Ahouai attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Thevetia Ahouai attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its fragrant and colorful flowers.
Q: Can Thevetia Ahouai tolerate drought?
A: Thevetia Ahouai can tolerate some drought, but it prefers regular watering to maintain its growth and flowering.
Related Plants
- Thevetia peruviana
- Thevetia neriifolia
- Thevetia ahouaioides
- Thevetia thevetioides
References
- “Thevetia peruviana”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
- “Thevetia neriifolia”. University of Florida IFAS Extension. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
- “Thevetia ahouaioides”. Tropicos. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
- “Thevetia thevetioides”. Tropicos. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
