Tabernaemontana divaricata ‘Little Emerald’ (Dwarf Crape Jasmine)
Tabernaemontana ‘Little Emerald’ is a compact, evergreen shrub valued for its glossy foliage and pure white, pinwheel-shaped flowers. It is widely used in low hedging, borders, and container planting where a neat form and continuous flowering are desired.
The plant produces small, dark green, glossy leaves that form a dense, tidy mound. Throughout the warmer months, and often intermittently year-round in suitable climates, it bears clusters of bright white, lightly fragrant flowers that contrast strongly against the foliage.
Key Features
‘Little Emerald’ is known for its compact growth habit and neat, rounded form.
It flowers repeatedly over an extended period, providing consistent colour.
The crisp white blooms and glossy leaves create a clean, refined look in garden settings.
Growth Habit and Size
This variety grows as a compact, rounded shrub.
It typically reaches 60 to 100 cm in height, with a similar spread. Growth rate is moderate.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun to partial shade. Partial shade is beneficial in hotter climates.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it prefers moderate watering.
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Soil
Prefers well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for tropical to warm temperate climates. It thrives in warmth and humidity but is sensitive to frost.
Maintenance
Low to moderate maintenance. Light pruning helps maintain shape and encourages denser growth and flowering.
Fertilise during the growing season to support healthy growth.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture and improve soil condition.
Common Issues
Frost may damage foliage in cooler climates.
Poor drainage can lead to root issues.
Occasional pests such as aphids or scale may appear.
Applications
Tabernaemontana ‘Little Emerald’ is suitable for:
Low hedging
Borders and edging
Container planting
Courtyards and patios
Fragrant gardens
Tropical landscapes
Its compact form makes it ideal for structured planting.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Tabernaemontana divaricata ‘Little Emerald’ |
| Common Name |
Little Emerald Crape Jasmine |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub |
| Mature Height |
60 cm to 1 m |
| Growth Habit |
Compact, rounded |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Direct Sunlight |
Tolerated (partial shade preferred in heat) |
| Watering Frequency |
Moderate; keep soil lightly moist |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, fertile |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Tropical to warm temperate |
| Frost Tolerance |
Low |
| Drought Tolerance |
Moderate |
| Maintenance Level |
Low to moderate |
| Fertiliser |
General-purpose |
| Toxicity |
Toxic if ingested |
FAQ – Tabernaemontana ‘Little Emerald’
Are the flowers fragrant?
Yes, they have a light, pleasant fragrance.
How often does it flower?
Repeatedly through warm months, sometimes year-round in ideal climates.
Is it suitable for hedging?
Yes, it forms a dense, low hedge.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun to partial shade; some shade is beneficial in hot areas.
Is it frost tolerant?
No, it is sensitive to frost.
How big does it grow?
Typically reaches 60 cm to 1 metre in height and width.
