Yellow Tailflower
NameYellow Tailflower
Scientific NameStrophanthus hispidus
Common NamesYellow Tailflower, Rough Strophanthus, Hairy Strophanthus
Plant FamilyApocynaceae
Natural HabitatTropical forests, savannas, and disturbed areas in West and Central Africa. It thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Parts Usedseed,bark
Medicinal Actionsdiuretic
Traditional UsesHistorically used as an arrow poison and ordeal poison due to its potent toxicity. In highly controlled, minute doses, traditional healers used it for heart conditions, fever, and as a diuretic.
Active Constituentsstrophanthin, ouabain, k-strophanthoside, cardiac glycosides
Preparation Methodstincture
Contraindications & WarningsExtremely toxic; not for self-medication under any circumstances. Overdose can be fatal due to severe cardiac arrest. Interacts dangerously with other cardiac medications, diuretics, and corticosteroids.
Cultivation NotesPrefers warm, tropical climates with high humidity and well-drained soil. Requires support for its climbing habit. Propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
Raritycommon
Description
A woody climbing shrub native to tropical Africa, characterized by its distinctive yellow, star-shaped flowers with five long, narrow, tail-like petal lobes. Its leaves are opposite and typically ovate to elliptic. The plant is highly toxic.
