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Description
Tabernaemontana Ventricosa, commonly known as Crested Gardenia or Butterfly Gardenia, is a flowering shrub native to Southeast Asia. This plant belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is prized for its fragrant white flowers that bloom throughout the year. It has a slow growth rate and can reach up to 10 feet in height and 5 feet in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Tabernaemontana |
Appearance
The Tabernaemontana Ventricosa has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow up to 6 inches long. The plant produces clusters of fragrant white flowers that have a yellow center and resemble a butterfly in shape. The flowers are about 2 inches in diameter and bloom throughout the year. The plant also produces small, round, red berries that are toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant can tolerate partial shade to full sun, but it prefers filtered light.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Tabernaemontana Ventricosa is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilization. If the plant does become infested, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Tabernaemontana Ventricosa is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It grows in tropical and subtropical climates and is commonly found in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Tabernaemontana Ventricosa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should the plant be pruned?
A: The plant should be pruned in early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can the plant be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Is the plant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
Related Plants
- Tabernaemontana Divaricata
- Tabernaemontana Coronaria
- Tabernaemontana Undulata
References
- “Tabernaemontana Ventricosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282753&isprofile=0&basic=tabernaemontana%20ventricosa.
- “Tabernaemontana Ventricosa.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/plant/1076.
- “Butterfly Gardenia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp469.
