Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant's growth slows down.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Milkwood · Milky Tree · Milky Wood
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Tabernaemontana citrifolia, known as Bellyache, is an evergreen shrub native to the Caribbean and South America, producing fragrant white flowers and often used ornamenta
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade, but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Ideal range 18-24°C. Avoid temperatures below 13°C.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains toxic alkaloids. All parts of the plant are poisonous.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant's growth slows down.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back young shoots to promote branching. Heavy pruning can be done in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and warm until roots form.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bellyache (Tabernaemontana citrifolia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Tabernaemontana |
| Species | Tabernaemontana citrifolia |
Similar in genus Tabernaemontana
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
