Apocynaceae - Botanical Family | Top Tropicals Plant Encyclopedia

Acokanthera oblongifolia, Acokanthera spectabilis, Carissa spectabilis

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This shrub is one of three members of the genus, Acokanthera. It belongs to the same family as many popular subtropical ornamental plants such as frangipani, allamanda and oleander, as well as the impala lily and num-num. This family is characterized by having sweetly scented flowers and sticky, milky sap which is very poisonous. The Bushman's poison is a hardy drought. It's a frost resistant, evergreen shrub that tolerates full sun but prefers shade, it also does well as a container plant.

Acokanthera oppositifolia

Acokanthera oppositifolia (Bushman's Poison) is a large shrub, typically growing 5-10 feet tall. It has glossy dark green leaves that are opposite and grow up to 3-4 inches long. In the spring and summer months, the Bushman's Poison flowering shrub is adorned with white, off-white flowers which have a strong, sweet, perfume-like scent.

In its native habitat, the Acokanthera oppositifolia is mainly used for its ethnomedical applications, such as treatment for headaches, inflammations, fever and even malaria. However, it should be noted that the milky sap is considered to be poisonous or toxic and should not be ingested.

As an ornamental plant, the Bushman's Poison works well in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and requires moderate amounts of water. It is suitable for growing in regions with USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 and a mature plant can tolerate short periods of time in temperatures as low as 30°F. When growing in a pot, it is advisable to move the container to a protected area during cold winters and to protect the roots from the frost.

Adenium 'Black Border'

Adenium (Desert Rose) 'Black Border' - striking double flowers with deep red petals, bright coral centers, and an almost black edge. As the bloom matures, the red darkens to near-black, and a vivid yellow throat becomes visible, adding dramatic contrast.

Adenium 'Black Sheep'

Adenium 'Black Sheep' truly lives up to its name with its unique, dark appearance. The deep, almost black petals surround a bright center, making it the "black sheep" of the family - standing out in a dramatic and unexpected way.

Adenium 'Black Swan'

Adenium 'Black Swan' features elegant, velvety petals in deep wine-red tones that darken toward the center, gradually shifting to near-black for a dramatic, refined look.

Adenium 'Bo Tun'

Adenium 'Bo Tun' - elegant double flowers with soft pink tones and vivid crimson accents for a refined, classic look.

Adenium 'Bua Chompoo'

Adenium 'Bua Chompoo' - delicate double flowers in soft pink shades, reminiscent of lotus blossoms with their graceful, rounded petals.

Adenium 'Bua Sawan'

Adenium 'Bua Sawan' is a Desert Rose variety featuring soft pink double flowers with vivid burgundy brushstroke-like markings on each petal. This striking pattern creates a dynamic, artistic look.

Adenium 'Candy'

Adenium 'Candy' is a hybrid with delicate, ruffled flowers in soft creamy-yellow shades fading to near white, edged with pink - a sweet mix of colors true to its name.

Adenium 'Carnation'

Adenium 'Carnation' - soft pink double flowers with delicate darker edging along the petal margins, evoking the charm of classic carnations.