Family: Apocynaceae

Widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions, these 100 or so species of flowering shrubs or small trees are similar to gardenias. All species produce a milky sap. They are used as ornamentals and as informal hedging in warm climates. Outside the tropics, grow them in a warm greenhouse or conservatory.

Species

T. divaricata, known as crape jasmine or moonbeam, occurs naturally in northern India, southern China and northern Thailand. Growing to 2.5 m (8 ft), it has oval, clusters of fragrant, white flowers.

T. grandiflora, (Synonym: Stemmadenia grandiflora), from Venezuela, grows to 2.5 m (8 ft), with yellow flowers.

Cultivation

Grow in pots of soil-based potting compost in the greenhouse or conservatory. Plants need very good light and should not be overwatered, especially in winter. If necessary, prune back lightly in late winter to maintain a good shape. Propagate from seed in spring or from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, both in a warm propagating case. Plants can also be lay­ered in spring.

Climate

Tropical.