Poison Arrow Plant &G

Poison Arrow Plant in 7-Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL

Striking and steeped in ancient tradition, the Poison Arrow Plant (Strophanthus gratus) is a rare, ornamental vine or shrub known for its long, curling pink-and-white flowers and glossy evergreen leaves. Native to tropical Africa, this plant gets its name from its historical use—its sap was once used to tip arrows. In the South Florida landscape, however, it offers pure ornamental value, with fragrant flowers and a unique trailing or shrubby form that stands out in any garden.

This 7-gallon pot features a healthy, young plant ready to climb a trellis, spill from a container, or grow into a free-form shrub in a warm, protected spot.

Care & Growing Info (Optimized for South Florida):

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade. 4–6+ hours of light supports best flowering.

• Watering: Moderate. Water regularly while establishing, then allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.

• Soil: Well-draining, loamy soil. Enrich with compost for best flowering. Avoid standing water.

• Fertilizer: Use a balanced bloom-enhancing fertilizer 2–3 times per year to encourage steady flower production.

• Growth Habit: Can grow as a vine or sprawling shrub. In a 7-gallon pot, expect 3–4 feet high and wide. Climbs trellises or fences if supported.

• Temperature: USDA Zones 10–11. Heat-loving; protect from frost or cold snaps under 40°F.

• Maintenance: Low to moderate. Prune lightly to shape or train. Trim after blooming to encourage fullness.

Foliage & Flower Notes:
Glossy dark green leaves contrast beautifully with long, spiraled, star-like flowers that appear in clusters. Blooming season often begins in spring and continues intermittently.

Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits:
Historically, extracts from the seeds and sap were used in traditional African medicine—and notably as arrow poison due to powerful cardiac glycosides. These compounds were once studied for pharmaceutical use but are extremely toxic if ingested. In the landscape, the plant is ornamental only and should be planted with caution around children or pets.

Ideal For:

• Rare and unusual plant collectors

• Tropical and exotic-themed gardens

• Trellises, fences, or large hanging containers

• Scented flower enthusiasts

• Gardeners seeking unique conversation pieces

Plant Classification:

• Scientific Name: Strophanthus gratus

• Common Name: Poison Arrow Plant

• Plant Type: Tropical flowering vine/shrub

• Family: Apocynaceae

• Class: Dicot

• Growth Form: Broadleaf evergreen perennial

  • Evergreen: Retains foliage year-round in warm climates

  • Perennial: Grows and blooms for many years

  • Broadleaf: Wide, glossy leaves with tropical texture

• Container Size: 7-gallon pot

Jupiter Farms & Nursery