Tabernaemontana crassa, Conopharyngia crassa, Conopharyngia durissima

Tabernaemontana crassa is a small shrub, typically ranging from 2 to 5 feet in height. It has glossy green leaves, and dense clusters of white, off-white flowers which are highly fragrant. This plant is ideal for USDA Zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in full sun and with regular watering.

It is a popular ethnomedical plant often used in traditional African healing practices. Tabernaemontana crassa contains a large number of indole alkaloids with interesting pharmacological activities. The alkaloid content is similar to that of Tabernaemontana pachysiphon, another medicinally important species. In West Africa pulped leaves and latex from the stem and bark of Tabernaemontana crassa have several uses, the main ones being as a local anesthetic. The latex is also applied as a hemostatic, as it forms a film over the wound. It is taken internally as an anthelmintic. Powdered bark is traded internationally in herbal medicine shops.

This tropical African native is a beautiful addition to any garden or yard. It grows quickly and is easy to care for with proper maintenance. When planted in a pot in colder regions, it is important to move the plant inside during winter and provide extra protection for the roots. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer and make sure the soil is well-drained. Water your plant often, but not to overwater it, as this can cause root rot or pest problems. Pruning is recommended to keep the shrub looking neat and producing flowers. Deadheading the flowers can also help promote further blooming and encourage healthy growth. With proper care, Tabernaemontana crassa will provide years of beauty and fragrance.

Similar plants:

• Rauvolfia verticillata, Cerbera chinensis, Dissolaena verticillata, Ervatamia ophiorhizoides, Rauvolfia yunnanensis, Tabernaemontana densiflora (Devil Pepper)
• Stemmadenia galeottiana, Tabernaemontana litoralis, Stemmadenia litoralis (Lechoso, Milky Way Tree)
• Stemmadenia grandiflora, Tabernaemontana grandiflora (Wedding Tree, Huevos de gato, Lechugo, Venenillo)
• Tabernaemontana africana (Samoan Gardenia)
• Tabernaemontana aurantiaca (Orange Milkwood)
• Tabernaemontana australis (Australian Pinweel)
• Tabernaemontana corymbosa (Flower of Love)
• Tabernaemontana divaricata Flore Pleno, Hollarhena densiflora, Tabernaemontana coronaria (Crape Jasmine, Carnation of India, East Indian Rosebay, Adam's Apple, Nero's Crown, Coffee Rose, Crepe Gardenia)
• Tabernaemontana divaricata, Ervatamia divaricata, Ervatamia coronaria (Pinwheel Jasmine, Crape Jasmine, Crepe Gardenia)
• Tabernaemontana elegans (Toad Tree)