L’Allamanda cathartica, known as the Golden Trumpet, stands out for its spectacular flowering and tropical vitality. Native to the warmer regions of South America, this climbing plant is a real star in botanical gardens such as Au Bois Vert, located in Ivato near Antananarivo. Its large, bright, trumpet-shaped yellow flowers are an instant eye-catcher, illuminating any space in which it is placed.
With its evergreen leaves, Allamanda cathartica or Golden Trumpet forms dense bushes or climbs on supports thanks to its flexible stems. It can reach heights of up to 6 meters if given the right support. In the botanical garden, this plant blends harmoniously into landscaping, elegantly covering trellises, pergolas or low walls. It prefers warm, humid climates, thriving in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
Golden Trumpet blooms abundantly practically all year round, peaking in summer. Its bright yellow flowers are exotic and attract a variety of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. This plant not only enhances the beauty of the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, but also enriches its biodiversity. Many visitors, fascinated by its beauty and elegance, consider it a tropical icon.
Thanks to its spectacular habit and continuous flowering, Allamanda cathartica is often found near hotels, restaurants and lodges. It enhances the warm, welcoming atmosphere of these spaces, making it a valuable ally in the beautification of Ivato.
Plant use
Allamanda cathartica is not limited to its decorative role. This plant has properties that make it valuable in various contexts. In botanical gardens such as Au Bois Vert, it serves multiple functions: ornamental, ecological, and practical. By covering vertical structures, it provides shade and a unique aesthetic, ideal for creating comfortable and attractive spaces in tropical environments. Its presence in botanical gardens attracts pollinators, strengthening the local ecosystem. Its flowers serve as a refuge for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. This ecological aspect makes it an ideal plant for spaces where biodiversity is essential. In traditional medicine, certain parts of Allamanda cathartica are used for their purgative properties; however, proper handling and use are necessary, as the plant contains toxic compounds. Botany enthusiasts, eager to explore its many facets, appreciate the explanations provided during guided tours at the Au Bois Vert botanical garden. In the hotels, restaurants, and lodges of Ivato, the Golden Trumpet stands out for its ability to transform outdoor spaces. It is frequently used to enhance terraces and entrances, adding to the tropical charm of these places. Its maintenance is relatively simple, making it a practical choice for landscaping projects. Moreover, it fits perfectly in environments where visitors seek an immersive nature experience. Whether to decorate a pergola or adorn a fence, Allamanda cathartica remains a top choice for both professionals and gardening enthusiasts.
Key information
| Common name | Golden Trumpet |
| Scientific name | Allamanda cathartica |
| Origin | South America |
| Natural habitat | Hot and humid tropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | All year round (peak in summer) |
