Also known as: Pinwheelflower, East india rosebay, Paper gardenia
Crape jasmine (Tabernaemontana divaricata) is an evergreen shrub that can grow to 2.5 m tall. White, pinwheel-shaped flowers with a carnation-like fragrance bloom year-round. Easy to grow in light shade to full sun. Popular as a backdrop for gardens and as a natural hedge.
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Shrub
Plant Type
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Mid fall
Harvest Time
3 m
Plant Height
1.8 m to 2.5 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2 cm
Flower Size
Brown
Fruit Color
White
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Non-dormant
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
20 - 41 ℃
Ideal Temperature
On This Page
Images
Distribution
Culture
Toxicity
Care Guide
FAQs
Common Diseases
Images of Crape jasmine
Distribution of Crape jasmine
Distribution Map
Crape jasmine, with its origins in South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia, has traversed beyond its home range to various tropical regions. It thrives in warm climates and has been introduced to parts of Central and South America, the Pacific Islands, and even the Caribbean. This species' adaptability has also enabled its cultivation in multiple locales across its introduced range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Crape jasmine is an evergreen shrub commonly found in gardens within warm climates. It is prized for its (nightly) aromatic and uniquely shaped ‘pinwheel’ flowers. It has wide-spreading, low branches, which makes it a suitable fragrant hedge and borders. Crape jasmine is appropriate for Rock Gardens. Plant with Bromeliad or orange Bird of Paradise to make a color contrast.
Symbolism
Purity and kindness
Interesting Facts
Crape jasmine petals have edges that look like arcs of lace, or arcs of dogs' bite marks. It is a special flower with no particularly bright color, but a strong scent.
Name Story
Pinwheelflower: The flowers of the single form are unscented but the double-flowered form produces a pleasing fragrance. The single-formed flowers have the characteristic of "pinwheel" shape, so it is called pinwheel flower.
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Toxicity
Crape jasmine is toxic to cats and dogs, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness upon ingestion. All parts, especially the stems and leaves, release milky white latex containing toxic alkaloids. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets swallow any part of crape jasmine.
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Water:
Crape jasmine, native to tropical regions, prefers consistently moist soil and a weekly watering schedule. It tolerates short dry spells and thrives outdoors in warm climates. Mulching is beneficial for moisture retention, simulating its natural leaf litter habitat.
Fertilize:
For crape jasmine, use high nitrogen fertilizers to foster growth and blooming. Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust feeding seasonally: increase in spring/summer, taper in fall, and pause in winter for optimal health and vibrant flowers.
Pruning:
Crape jasmine features glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. Prune in late spring post-blooming, removing dead branches first. Light thinning improves airflow and reduces pests, while regular pruning encourages healthier blooms and prevents legginess. Use clean, sharp tools for optimal results.
Propagation:
Crape jasmine thrives in warm Spring and Summer for propagation, mainly via cuttings. Successful growth is indicated by new leaf development, with consistent moisture being essential throughout this phase.
Repotting:
Repot crape jasmine every 2-3 years in early spring to support growth. Choose larger pots for its roots, provide bright, indirect light, and maintain consistently moist, well-draining soil. Handle crape jasmine's roots gently as they are essential for its healthy development.
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