Tabernaemontana divaricata

The plant generally grows to a height of 5–6 feet (1.5–1.8 m) and is dichotomously branched. The large shiny leaves are deep green and about 6 inches (15 cm) in length and 2 inches (5.1 cm) in width. The waxy blossoms are found in small clusters on the stem tips. The (single) flowers have the characteristic 'pinwheel' shape also seen in other genera in the family Apocynaceae such as Vinca and Nerium. Both single and double-flowered forms are cultivated, the flowers of both forms being white. The plant blooms in spring but flowers appear sporadically all year. The flowers of the single form are unscented but the double-flowered form has a pleasing fragrance.The roots have a bitter taste.
The leaves of this plant are eaten by the caterpillars of the oleander hawk-moth (Daphnis nerii).


 

Tabernaemontana divaricata 'Flore Pleno'




 

Crape jasmine bunch




 

Tabernaemontana divaricata 'Pinwheel'




 

Tabernaemontana divarcata yet to blossom




 

Caterpillar of Oleander hawk-moth feeding on pinwheel flower plant