Tabernaemontana divaricata, known as chandni, tagar or crepe jasmine, is a popular evergreen shrub bearing pure-white, pinwheel-shaped flowers against glossy, deep-green foliage. Single and double forms exist, and the lightly fragrant blooms appear through much of the year, peaking in the warm season. Naturally bushy and rounded, it suits hedges, borders, foundation plantings and large pots, and tolerates partial shade better than many flowering shrubs. Easy and forgiving, it is a favourite in temple and home gardens across India. The flowers are used in worship and garlands. With basic care, chandni delivers crisp white colour and a tidy, lush habit year-round.
Specifications
| Family |
Apocynaceae |
| Native region |
India and Southeast Asia |
| Mature height |
1.5-2.5 m |
| Mature spread |
1-2 m |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Glossy, deep green, evergreen |
| Flower colour |
Pure white |
| Flower season |
Much of the year, peak warm season |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering |
Keep soil moist; water when top layer dries |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained, fertile, organic-rich soil |
| Temperature |
Warm 18-35°C; protect from frost |
| Humidity |
Prefers moderate to high humidity |
| Fertilizer |
Balanced feed monthly in growing season |
| Pruning |
Trim lightly to shape and encourage bushiness |
| Repotting |
Every 2 years or when rootbound |
| Propagation |
Semi-hardwood stem cuttings root easily |
| Pests & problems |
Watch for mealybugs, aphids, whitefly |
| Toxicity / safety |
Milky sap mildly toxic if ingested |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
A versatile shrub for hedges, borders, foundation plantings and pots, valued for white flowers used in worship and garlands. Tolerates partial shade, suiting many garden spots.
Growing tips
In India, chandni grows well in full sun to light shade with regular watering and rich, well-drained soil. Light pruning keeps it dense, and semi-hardwood cuttings root readily in the warm season.