Ouabain (Strophanthus gratus)

Also known as: Rose Allamanda, Climbing Oleander

The "Glory Lily" (Gloriosa superba) is known for its eye-catching trumpet-shaped flowers adorned with pink to red streamer-like petals. Native to African forests, this climber attracts both pollinators and plant enthusiasts. Its shiny green leaves and vigorous growth add to its appeal as an ornamental plant. However, it's crucial to note that all parts of the Glory Lily are highly toxic if ingested.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Ouabain

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine

Plant Height

Up to 10 meters

Spread

Typically up to 3 meters

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

5 to 7 cm

Flower Color

Rose-pink to violet with a yellow throat

Images of Ouabain

Quickly Identify Ouabain

Strophanthus gratus can be identified by its large, glossy, dark green leaves and rose-pink to violet flowers with a yellow throat. The flowers are tubular and highly fragrant. It generally grows as a woody climber or shrub, often reaching notable heights.

Scientific Classification of Ouabain

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Family

Dogbane

Genus

Strophanthus

Species

Ouabain

Planting and Growing of Ouabain

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Ouabain?

For Strophanthus gratus, watering should be done until the soil is thoroughly moist but not waterlogged. Approximately 500 ml is optimal, ensuring the excess drains away, thus mimicking its natural habitat where it receives consistent moisture but never stands in water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Ouabain? ›

What should I do if my Ouabain is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Ouabain? ›

How to save an overwatered Ouabain? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Ouabain?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Partial sun exposure allows Strophanthus gratus to maintain its health and vibrancy, supporting optimal growth and flower production. This balance of light ensures energy needs are met without risking photodamage or dehydration.

How much sun does Strophanthus gratus need? ›

What is the best location for its growth? ›

How can I enhance its light exposure? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Ouabain?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth of Strophanthus gratus, maintaining a temperature range between 65°F and 75°F is ideal. This range provides a stable environment that supports physiological processes and encourages vibrant growth and flowering. During these temperatures, the plant can efficiently photosynthesize, maintain transpiration rates, and support healthy cell division and growth.

What Soil is Best for Ouabain?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Strophanthus gratus thrives in well-drained soil which ensures that water does not stagnate around its roots, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth. Good drainage is crucial for preventing waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. The plant prefers soil that is moderately fertile. This helps provide the essential nutrients without the risk of excesses that might lead to imbalanced growth. Balanced soil fertility results in vigorous foliage and sustained flowering. Incorporating organic matter into the soil enhances its structure, providing aeration and increasing nutrient availability. This supports robust plant health, allowing Strophanthus gratus to thrive with lush foliage and abundant blooms.

How to Fertilize Ouabain?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Strophanthus gratus, it is crucial to provide a balanced fertilizer. For liquid fertilizer, use a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer, applying about 150 ml per application to ensure optimal nutrient absorption without overwhelming the plant.

How to Prune Ouabain?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by inspecting the plant for dead or damaged branches, which should be removed first. Use sharp, clean shears to make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle. Trim back branches to your desired size, focusing on maintaining an open, airy structure by cutting away any crossing or congested limbs. Be sure to continually assess the plant’s shape as you prune to ensure a balanced look. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Ouabain plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

To propagate Strophanthus gratus from seeds, begin by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. This helps to improve germination rates by allowing water to penetrate more easily and initiate the germination process.

Fill seed trays with a well-draining potting mix and place the seeds on top, pressing them gently into the soil. Cover them lightly with additional soil or a thin layer of vermiculite to ensure they receive adequate light for germination.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems of approximately 4-6 inches in length. Use sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half to reduce water loss through transpiration.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Ouabain plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two to three years

Repotting should be considered when you notice roots breaking through the pot's drainage holes or the plant shows decreased growth despite receiving proper care. These are clear signals that it's time to provide more space for the roots, usually every two to three years, ideally in Spring or Summer.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with adequate drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. The right pot size offers sufficient space for roots to expand, which helps in robust plant growth and nutrient uptake. The material should be either terracotta or plastic to balance weight and durability.

Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter. This soil type ensures sufficient aeration and prevents water stagnation, providing an optimal growing environment for Strophanthus gratus. It also helps maintain the right moisture levels, reducing the risk of root rot.