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Description
Tabernaemontana Divaricata, also known as Crape Jasmine, is a shrub that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to India and Southeast Asia and thrives in tropical and subtropical environments. The plant produces fragrant white or pink flowers that bloom throughout the year. The flowers have a star shape and a sweet scent that attracts butterflies and bees. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, headache, and cough.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Tabernaemontana |
Appearance
The Tabernaemontana Divaricata is a medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and lance-shaped, and they can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are star-shaped, white or pink, and have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. The plant produces oblong-shaped fruits that are about 2 inches long and contain numerous seeds. The overall appearance of the Tabernaemontana Divaricata is elegant and refined, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
The Tabernaemontana Divaricata requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Tabernaemontana Divaricata in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant needs partial to full sunlight to grow and bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: The Tabernaemontana Divaricata thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Tabernaemontana Divaricata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it may still suffer from some common issues:
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the plant’s sap and cause leaf distortion and discoloration.
- Mealybugs: These pests can produce a waxy coating on the plant’s leaves and stems and weaken the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the plant’s leaves and weaken the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can produce a white powdery coating on the plant’s leaves and stems and weaken the plant.
Habitat
The Tabernaemontana Divaricata is native to India and Southeast Asia and grows in tropical and subtropical environments. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sunlight. It can tolerate a range of temperatures but thrives in warm and humid conditions. The plant is often used in gardens, landscapes, and as a border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Tabernaemontana Divaricata poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant contains toxic alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested. Keep the plant away from pets and children.
Q: Does the Tabernaemontana Divaricata require pruning?
A: Yes, you can prune the plant to shape it and remove dead or damaged branches. Prune the plant after blooming to avoid removing the flower buds.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Tabernaemontana Divaricata?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: How do I propagate the Tabernaemontana Divaricata?
A: You can propagate the plant by stem cuttings or layering. Take a 6-inch cutting from a healthy stem, remove the leaves from the bottom, and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in partial shade until it roots.
Related Plants
- Tabernaemontana Coronaria
- Tabernaemontana Undulata
- Tabernaemontana Afzelii
- Tabernaemontana Divaricata Variegata
References
- “Tabernaemontana Divaricata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 September 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277942&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&sitewidepagenum=1>
- “Tabernaemontana Divaricata.” Floridata. Accessed 28 September 2021. <https://floridata.com/Plants/Apocynaceae/Tabernaemontana+divaricata/963>
- “Crape Jasmine.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 28 September 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP268>
