Tabernaemontana orientalis

Eastern Gondala Bush

Apocynaceae

Form and Size: A small to medium, spreading shrub, 1-3m high, with milky sap.

Distribution: North-eastern Qld., N.T. and W.A.; along stream banks, on rainforest margins and in monsoon forests and vine thickets.

Leaves: Opposite, elongated oval tapering to the base, tip pointed, veins prominent, hairy, light green, 6.5-20cm x 4-7cm; new growth softly hairy.

Flowers: White, tubular with petals in a rotating pattern, perfumed, 1.5-2.2cm diameter; borne in small clusters, terminal or in the axils.

Flowering Period: August to December.

Fruit: Yellow-orange, curved, 3-sided, banana-shaped, l.5-2cm x 0.8-lcm; carried in pairs; seeds reddish.

Cultivation/Notes: Propagate from fresh seed. Needs a shady, protected position and well drained soil. An unusual plant with attractive flowers and colourful seed capsules.