Dwarf Allamanda

Allamanda cathartica 'Compacta'

Dwarf allamanda is a true garden diva - a very pretty, sometimes fussy shrub that loves drawing attention to itself.

With exquisite butter-yellow flowers over glossy deep green foliage, the dwarf variety of allamanda stays small and bushy, making it a good shrub for smaller spaces.

Watering correctly is the key to keeping these small flowering shrubs at their best. They need regular irrigation but must dry out a bit in between waterings.

Picturesque in groupings or rows, they can work as a front-of-the-border plants or use them behind annuals, groundcovers or small perennials. Other varieties are bush allamanda and allamanda vine.

Plant specs

Dwarf allamandas grow at a moderate rate and you can easily keep them 2 to 2-1/2 feet tall.

Plant in a full to partial sun location to get the most bloom.

These are evergreen but cold-sensitive shrubs that will only do well in Zone 10.

In more inland areas of Zone 10A where winter temps can be colder, cover the plant if there's a threat of frost. See the Cold Protection page for tips.

Moderately drought-tolerant, they need to dry out a bit between waterings and will not survive in wet areas.

Dwarf allamanda will flower during the warm weather of spring, summer and fall.

Plant care

Add top soil or organic peat humus mixed with composted cow manure to the hole when you plant.

Allamandas contain toxins and will make you sick if you ingest them. The milky sap may cause skin irritations as well, so wear garden gloves when handling cuttings if you have sensitive skin.

Trim to shape as needed. A hard spring pruning isn't necessary.

Fertilize three times a year with a top-quality granular fertilizer high in phosphorus to promote heavy blooming. You can also supplement feedings with bone meal and liquid fertilizer.