Despite its beautiful rose scent, the pretty Climbing Oleander is not as friendly as it appears. The plant contains high concentration of cardiac glycosides, which are organic compounds that increase the output force of the heart. Ouabain is the main glycoside found in the seed, it is odorless but very bitter and extremely toxic. Extracts containing ouabain have long been used by Somali tribesmen and other groups to poison hunting arrows.

The plant has shiny, leathery, olive green, oblong to elliptical, glabrous leaves. The leaves are used to treat gonorrhea and constipation, as well as applied externally to treat snakebites and to cure fever. The root is said to be an aphrodisiac. Most notably the seeds contain the highest concentration of glycosides which can be extracted and used as a rapid cardiac stimulant. Ouabain derived from the plant's seeds is used as a treatment for heart failure

More recent studies have found a novel use that can prove relevant for treatment of prostate cancer. This plant is still poisonous and can cause nausea, vomiting, and heart problems if not used properly.

Popular as an ornamental it is grown in gardens and parks. The plant prefers full sun and fertile soil for optimum growth.

Scientific name: Strophanthus gratus

Common names: Climbing Oleander, Rose Allamanda, Indian Rubber Vine

Family: Apocynaceae

Native Distribution: West Africa

Picture credits; Jyoti Prateek 

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Plants of Singapore