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POISONOUS AND INJURIOUS PLANTS 39 
BN-13198 
Ficure 20.—Purple Allamanda (Cryptostegia grandiflora R. Br.) 
Islands the plants set fruits, which usually mature during the winter 
months. The plant contains an acrid, sticky, milky sap that is irritat- 
ing to the skin. Propagation is by cuttings or seeds, usually the 
former. 
DisrripuTion AND Hasrrat.—This handsome ornamental, which 1s 
drought tolerant, is planted throughout the Virgin Islands. It may 
be trained to grow as an erect shrub or as a vine on a trellis. It is 
usually planted i in border plantings where intermediate to high plants 
are desired. Plants occasionally survive on abandoned house sites. 
Toxicity anp Symproms.—The milky sap of purple allamanda is a 
drastic irritant to the skin. When taken internally, 5 to 7 drops pro- 
duce severe diarrhea (47). The leaves, stems, and roots of the plant 
are poisonous. Decoctions of powdered leaves mixed with water have 
caused death to humans (45). 
MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL. —Gloves should be worn when pruning 
or working with the plants. Sap that accidentally gets on the skin 
should be washed off immediately with soap and water. Although 
livestock ordinarily do not browse on this plant, they may eat it when 
tethered or confined in accessible areas or where other forage is not 
available. Therefore, they should not be allowed access to the plants. 
Individual plants are best eradicated by grubbing. If herbicides are 
used, special care should be taken, or other plants nearby may be killed 
or injured. 
