Crape Jasmine
Tabernaemontana divaricata
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About this plant
Tabernaemontana divaricata, commonly known as Crape Jasmine, is a tropical shrub known for its glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers that resemble jasmine. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its attractive appearance and sweet scent. The plant can bloom throughout the year in warm climates and is valued for its low maintenance and ability to tolerate shade.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Tabernaemontana
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Higher classification
- Gentianales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Native to South and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse, Indoor
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting mix
Watering. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows down.
Tabernaemontana divaricata is a tough and easy-to-care-for shrub that thrives in warm climates. It prefers partial sun to shade and needs moderate watering. It is generally low maintenance but avoid overwatering to prevent root problems.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–fall
Glossy dark green leaves and fragrant, white, pinwheel-shaped flowers that bloom repeatedly.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The plant's sap can cause mild skin irritation; keep away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion, which may cause mild stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Some people may be sensitive to the sap or pollen of this plant, which can cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions. To reduce exposure, avoid touching the sap and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and too much direct sun may scorch the leaves. Occasionally, pests like aphids or mealybugs may appear but are usually easy to manage.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and pleasant fragrance. Sometimes used in traditional medicine in native regions.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot young plants every 2–3 years to refresh soil. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).