Stemmadenia - Search results

Botanical names: Stemmadenia galeottiana, Tabernaemontana litoralis, Stemmadenia litoralis

Common names: Lechoso, Milky Way Tree

Family: Apocynaceae

Origin: Tropical America

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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A very rare handsome tropical tree with large white fragrant flowers of unusual shape. This tree can be (and should be) kept in container where it grows up to 7-8 ft, stays compact and bushy. The fragrance of flowers is outstanding. Not many people know about this tree because it's very rare, while it is as great as famous Perfume trees (Michelia champaca and Cananga odorata). It blooms especially in summer and after drought period. Nice specimen tree for small gardens. It has a multi-layered canopy, blooms mostly from mid-April to late Winter. When in full bloom, perfume fills the area with a soft, musky sweetness. A massive rofusion of flowers decks the branches, pure white against lacquered, dark green leaves, and carpets the ground with fallen blossoms. Grows well in full sun (if not too hot), as well as in semi-shade, tolerates shade, too, in shade it's glossy leaves become large and dark green. Very ornamental! The tree can even tolerate a little sea spray. Seed pods are golden in color, about 4 inches long, horn-shaped, often in pairs.

See Article 1 about Stemmadenia and Article 2 about Stemmadenia .

NOTE: Sometimes Stemmadenia develops on the undersides of leaves tiny granules looking like white sand grain or sugar crystals. They are harmless and nothing more than polysaccharides. Read more info about Stemmadenia.

Botanical names: Stemmadenia grandiflora, Tabernaemontana grandiflora

Common names: Wedding Tree, Huevos de gato, Lechugo, Venenillo

Family: Apocynaceae

Origin: Central America

The plant originates in Central America and is a large shrub reaching a height of 5-10 feet tall.

It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 and needs to be planted in full sun for optimum growth. However, some protection from direct sun is needed in very hot climates. The Wedding Tree needs to be kept in moist conditions and is considered moderately drought-tolerant once established. It should be watered regularly, but avoid over watering or its roots could rot.

The flower on the Wedding Tree is very unique and particularly attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds. The blossoms have a bell shape and tip upward at the end. They are a creamy-yellow to orange color and are strongly fragrant. The blooms appear throughout the summer making this a real show stopper in any garden.

In areas with colder climates, the Wedding Tree can be grown in a pot and brought inside in the winter. It can be placed outside in bright light during the spring, summer and fall and should be brought inside well before the freezing temperatures hit. While indoors, the plant should not be placed in direct sunlight and should be kept away from drafts. It should also be kept moist and fertilized every two to three weeks.

Overall, Stemmadenia grandiflora (Wedding Tree) is a unique, vibrant and beautiful flowering shrub. With proper care and maintenance, it will bring years of enjoyment with its brightly colored flowers and fragrant scent. It is the perfect addition to any garden or outdoor space and has the added benefit of attracting beneficial wildlife such as butterflies and hummingbirds.