Tabernaemontana sp. 'Variegata' (Variegated Tabernaemontana)

Small compact bushy shrub, looks similar to Tabernaemontana divaricata (same growth habit), but foliage is variegated, and flowers are fragrant. There are several varieties of the variegated tabernaemontana, including Silver Rain, Gold - they differ by shade of variegated leaves, from silvery to golden. Nice specimen plant, very hard to find.

If you think you've seen every tropical shrub out there, meet Golden Rain: a rare and beautiful variety of the Tabernaemontana genus with variegated foliage that steals the show.

What makes it special?

The leaves: Instead of plain green, the foliage has golden or silvery variegation think green with bright flashes of gold or white. This gives the shrub an art-piece look.

The flowers: Like other Tabernaemontana, it produces white, fragrant blooms (often in clusters), so you get both perfume and foliage.

Growth habit: It stays fairly compact and rounded, making it suitable as a specimen in containers or smaller gardens.

Versatility: It's reported to tolerate both full sun and partial shade, which gives you more flexibility in placement.

How to grow it:

Light: Give it bright light; full sun is fine if you re in a warm region but partial shade helps preserve the variegation.

Soil and water: Use well-draining soil. Water regularly but allow a little drying between waterings once the plant is established.

Placement: As this is a rare shrub, treat it like a special feature - near a patio, entrance, or in a stylish container where people pass by and notice the leaves.

Cool weather: It's tropical-friendly, so protect it if you hit near-freezing temperatures. If you're in zone 9 or warmer, it'll likely be very happy outdoors.

Maintenance: Not high-maintenance, but since the variegation is part of the appeal, keep an eye out for signs of stress (loss of variegation, chlorosis) and address issues like nutrient deficiency or poor light.

Why youll love it? Because it's rare. Because the leaves look like they've been splashed with gold. Because it smells lovely and stands out in any garden. If you like plants that turn heads and spark conversations - this Golden Rain is a perfect fit.