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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

Other common names
wintersweet
Synonyms
Acokanthera spectabilis

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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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 Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical 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

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