Cassonia

tabernaemontana divaricata

Also known as: ["Cassonia","Pinwheel Flower","Crape Jasmine"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Tabernaemontana Category: Flowers

Overview

A tropical evergreen shrub with fragrant, pinwheel-shaped white flowers and glossy green leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Tabernaemontana
Botanical Name: Tabernaemontana divaricata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor conditions, rarely needed outdoors
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; move outdoors in warm months.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, fertile potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; add fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse container periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); avoid winter feeding.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Tabernaemontana divaricata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic capacity and overall health.

Wilting in Tabernaemontana divaricata is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering, which can lead to cellular damage and reduced turgor pressure in the plant tissues.

Leaf spots on Tabernaemontana divaricata are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Tabernaemontana divaricata due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are particularly sensitive to the alkaloids present in Tabernaemontana divaricata. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, which may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from cats. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Tabernaemontana divaricata can lead to more severe toxic effects due to their smaller body size and different metabolic processes. The alkaloids can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and potentially neurological symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from dogs. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Tabernaemontana divaricata contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation and discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Wash hands after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tabernaemontana divaricata toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water this plant?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does this plant require full sun?

A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but prefers protection from harsh afternoon sun.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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