Allamanda Cathartica
Contents
Description
Allamanda Cathartica, commonly known as Golden Trumpet, is a tropical plant that is native to South and Central America. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its vibrant yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Allamanda |
Appearance
The Allamanda Cathartica plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are 4-8 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The plant produces trumpet-shaped flowers that are 3-4 inches in diameter and are bright yellow in color. The flowers bloom throughout the year, but are more profuse during the summer months.
Care Guide
The Allamanda Cathartica plant requires regular maintenance to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
- Soil: The Allamanda Cathartica plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to thrive. However, it can tolerate partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Allamanda Cathartica plant grows best in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Allamanda Cathartica plant is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause webbing on the plant and damage the leaves.
- Aphids: These pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Leaf spot: This disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves.
Habitat
The Allamanda Cathartica plant is native to South and Central America, and can be found in tropical regions. It grows best in warm, humid climates and requires full sunlight to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Allamanda Cathartica plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location. However, it may not bloom as profusely as it would outdoors.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Allamanda Cathartica plant?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season, and reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Allamanda Cathartica plant?
A: The plant grows best in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: How often should I water the Allamanda Cathartica plant?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Related Plants
- Allamanda blanchetii
- Allamanda hendersonii
- Allamanda neriifolia
References
- “Allamanda cathartica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280306&isprofile=0&basic=Allamanda%20cathartica.
- “Allamanda cathartica.” University of Florida. Accessed 21 May 2021. edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp161.
- “Allamanda cathartica L.” The Plant List. Accessed 21 May 2021. www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-6173.
