Family: Apocynaceae

There are eight species of ornamental trees or shrubs in this genus, all of which have their origins in tropical America. Only one species is in general cultivation and it makes an attractive, long-flowering pot plant for the conservatory. Related to oleander and frangipani, these plants are poisonous if any part of them is ingested and the milky sap may cause skin irritations.

Species

T. peruviana, sometimes called yellow oleander, is an evergreen shrub or small tree, growing 3-8 m (10-26 ft) high. The long, narrow, glossy, green leaves are carried more densely towards the branch tips. The funnel-shaped flowers are fragrant and may be apricot, orange or clear yellow. These are carried towards the tips of the stems and may be seen from late spring through to autumn. After flowering, seeds are formed in the green, fleshy fruit that matures to black when fully ripe.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics, grow in a warm greenhouse or conservatory in pots of soil-based potting compost. Plants need maximum light and airy conditions. Water well when plants are in full growth, but keep much drier in winter. If necessary, prune in late winter to restrict size. Propagate in spring from seeds ger­minated at 21°C (70°F), or from semi-ripe cut­tings in summer, rooted in a heated propagat­ing case.

Climate

Tropical.