This tropical asclepiad originates from South-America and is now widespread in most (sub-)tropical regions of the world, such as Spain. It is both drought-tolerant and the opposite; it can take plenty of rain. It is a climbing plant that can grow to up to 5-10 metres high. In some countries it is now considered to be a weed, but it is nevertheless a highly ornamental plant, producing pink-striped white flowered. The flowers are scented all day, unlike some asclepiads, among them some hoyas for instance, which are only scented at night. The plants are mainly moth-pollinated, certainly in their country in origin, but in other countries where they have established and the correct type of moth is not present, the pollination is done by bees. Araujias are known as the cruel plant, because if the wrong type of moth (i.e. too small a moth) tries to pollinate the flower, its tongue will get stuck in the pollination system, and unable to escape, it will die. Bees and larger moths do not get stuck because they are heavy enough to pull free. Seedpods produce up to a few hundred seeds per pod. The seed is carried on the wind by small parachutes, similar to thistles.
Araujias are close relatives of the Dregea from China, of the Periploca from the Mediterranean and of the Stephanotis from Madagascar and are very easy to grow as houseplants, being able to grow in shade or sun, and not fussy as regards soil. The only limiting factor is frost. The flowering period is summer. Propagation is mainly from seed, but cuttings are also possible.
Araujia sericifera
Araujia sericifera
Paul Shirley Succulents 