This showy climber from tropical America is very popular in warm climate gardens, where it is often seen growing on fences, walls and pergolas. It produces large, stunning yellow flowers over several months of the year. The genus name commemorates Dr. Frederic Allamand, an eighteenth century botanist.

Plant details

Common name: Allamanda, Golden Trumpet Vine

Botanic name: Allamanda cathartica (sold as Allamanda cathartica 'Schottii')

Description: A vigorous, evergreen, fast growing twiner. The glossy lance-shaped leaves are mostly arranged in whorls of 4. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped and deep golden yellow in colour. Flowering time is November to May.

Best climate:  Allamandas grow best in the warmer areas of Australia. Although they may be worth a try in cooler zones in warm, sheltered spots or beachside suburbs, they are unlikely to do as well as they will in the tropics and subtropics.

Good points: beautiful, clear yellow flowers attractive, glossy green leaves perfect for covering fences in warm climate gardens

Downside: frost and cold sensitive, so difficult to grow in cold areas Allamandas belong to the Apocynaceae, or Dogbane family. Like their relatives the oleanders, they contain a poisonous, milky sap which can irritate the skin.

Care: Golden trumpet vines like a warm sunny position, a rich friable soil and plenty of water in spring and summer. Prune heavily in spring to shape the vine and encourage flowers.

Getting started:

Allamandas are widely available in warm climate areas. Prices start at around $7 for a 140mm (5 1/2") pot.

Copyright CTC Productions 2002