Question
Hello Vito,

Thank you for your help with deciphering the origin and name of my pretty bush-yellow allamanda.  I am planning on repotting it and placing in the house for the winter.  I only have a few more questions to ask.
I read on the internet that allamanda is highly poisonous and people should avoid any contact with milky substance inside the plant.  My plant has suffered a bit because of few cold nights.  Some of its leaves turned dark brown and look like they froze.  I was thinking of cutting them back before I bring the plant inside but perhaps I should wait until spring?  How should I handle the pruning.  Will the gloves be sufficient?  You mentioned that the plant will be dormant throught the winter months.  I understand that it will not have flowers, but will it change the color of its leaves as well?
Also, should I spray the plant with some insect sprays before I bring it in?  Anything you would recommend?

I would appreciate any information.
Greg

Answer
Hello Greg,

Allamanda belong in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) which are known for their sap which contain strong alkaloids. A few other members of the family include oleander, vinca and plumeria. Oleander is one of the more poisonous of the bunch and it can kill a cow if it happens to munch on a nearby bush.

In any event, I don't think you have to worry about your allamanda. Most of these toxins only cause a problem if they are ingested or get into mucous membranes like your eyes. It certainly couldn't hurt to wear gloves if you feel nervous about it.

You should prune back any dead stems now down to healthy tissue. Depending on how much light you give it indoors, it may or may not start putting out new growth but it may be spindly in which case you would want to cut it back again in the spring. The color of the leaves should not change during the winter months.

It is always a good idea to give your plants a shot of insecticide before bringing them in. Safer's makes a mild non-toxic to pets and humans insecticide that is sold everywhere. Ortho makes various products as well. Whatever you use, read the label and follow the instructions on the bottle explicitly.  

I hope this information was of help to you.

Vito Nettis

P.S...Thank you for the nice feedback rating. It is much appreciated.