Apocynaceae

Tabernaemontana ventricosa

Forest toad-tree

Small/Medium Tree

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

Tabernaemontana ventricosa is an evergreen shrub or small tree, typically growing 3-15 metres tall, exuding white sap. Its oblong, leathery leaves are glossy dark green and clustered near branch ends. It produces fragrant white flowers with twisted lobes, often having a pale yellow centre, and distinct dark green, paired, beaked pods that split to reveal orange pulp and seeds.

Where it works in Kilifi

This adaptable tree thrives in partial shade to semi-shade, though it can tolerate full sun if sheltered from wind and adequately watered. It prefers humus-rich, well-drained sandy soils and is an excellent choice for a specimen tree, attracting birds, insects, and small mammals to the garden.

Growing notes

Tabernaemontana ventricosa exhibits a relatively fast growth rate under favourable conditions and requires moderate, regular watering, especially during establishment. Being frost-sensitive, it is best suited for tropical areas with mild winters. It can be propagated from fresh seed or cuttings, and benefits from pruning in early spring to maintain shape and promote healthy growth.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, picturethisai.com, sanbi.org, blogspot.com, wikipedia.org, mindat.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.