Acokanthera oblongifolia
poison arrow plant
A medium-sized, dense tropical evergreen shrub or small tree up to 4m in height with glossy, oblong-shaped dark green foliage which turns purple in the autumn. Clusters of fragrant, star-shaped white flowers appear in spring and summer, followed by olive-shaped purple to black fruits. Known as 'Bushman's Poison', the sap was originally used by bushmen to make poisonous arrows and all parts of the plant are highly toxic
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green Purple | Purple Black | ||
| Winter | Purple |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy, Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs), Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers well-drained humus-rich soil in a warm, sunny location. Will tolerate coastal conditions and drought but will need protection from frost in winter
Propagation
Propagate by cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Prune back after flowering. See pruning group 8
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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