Golden Trumpet Vine (Allamanda cathartica)

Golden Trumpet Vine

Allamanda cathartica

Vibrant golden trumpets blaze in summer, a sun-loving tropical climber. Evergreen woody vine; common name: Golden Trumpet.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant flowering; tolerate partial shade during the hottest midday hours.
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot and fungal diseases.
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost, so maintain temperatures above 15°C year-round for survival.
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, elliptical, glossy dark green leaves growing in whorls of 3–4.
  • Flower: Trumpet-shaped, bright golden yellow blooms 7–10 cm in diameter, with five fused petals.
  • Stem: Woody, twining stems containing milky, sticky sap.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase watering frequency during hot, dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in winter when growth enters a dormant phase

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels soaked in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drenching and discard solid debris to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Prune immediately after flowering to control vine length and encourage new bloom-producing growth.
  • Remove dead, diseased, or tangled stems to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.
  • Train vines on trellises or supports to maintain a neat, climbing shape.
  • Trim overgrown branches in early spring to promote bushier, more compact growth.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; contains cardiac glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and irregular heart rate.

Humans: Contains cardiac glycosides; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset, and contact with sap may irritate skin.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes joy and vitality due to its bright, cheerful golden blooms.

Usage: Ornamental climbing vine for arbors, fences, and indoor conservatories; historical traditional medicinal use of sap is not recommended for modern practice due to toxicity.