Family: Rubiaceae

Previously a genus of 200 to 300 species, these have now been split into several groups. Raudia species are tropical, evergreen trees and shrubs, sometimes quite spiny, with trumpet-shaped flowers and berry fruit. Many are cultivated as ornamentals, but some are grown for their edible fruit.

Species

R. benthamiana and R. fitzalanii are two Australian species in cultivation. Both may grow 6-8 m (20-26 ft( high and are known as native gardenia because of their perfumed, white flowers.

R. formosa, from tropical South America, is a spineless shrub with ovate leaves and white flowers, in the shape of slender trumpets.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics, if plants are available, grow in a warm greenhouse or conservatory, in pots of soil-based potting compost. Water well in the growing season. Propagate from cuttings of young shoots in spring, ideally with bottom heat.

Climate

Tropical only.