Toad Tree – Tabernaemontana elegans

Toad Tree – Tabernaemontana elegans

A hardy indigenous tree valued for its attractive foliage, scented flowers, and colorful fruit. It makes an excellent feature, shade, or wildlife-friendly tree and is well-suited to both coastal and inland gardens. It grows best in warm, frost-free climates

Please note that our imported tropical plants may arrive smaller in size than expected. This is completely normal, as young plants are shipped to ensure they travel safely and establish well in their new environment. With proper care, warmth, and growing conditions, they will develop quickly and grow into strong, healthy, mature plants.

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Position

This attractive evergreen tree grows best in full sun to semi-shade. It thrives in warm climates and is well-suited to coastal and subtropical gardens.

Soil Type

A balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, known as loamy soil, is ideal. A well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 is recommended. Add a bag of acid compost to reduce the pH of the soil. Dig a hole approximately 60 x 60 cm to encourage healthy root development.

Give your plants the best possible start by adding a bag of Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) to the soil. Volcanic Rock Dust helps replenish essential minerals and trace elements that have been depleted from our soils over time.

We also recommend adding a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) when planting. Superfrass provides a natural source of NPK and micronutrients to encourage strong, healthy growth, while also helping to improve the plant’s natural resistance to pests.

Together, these products help create a nutrient-rich growing environment and give your plants the foundation they need to establish and thrive.

Water

Water regularly while the tree is establishing. Once mature, it is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with occasional deep watering during dry periods.

Pruning

Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches during winter. Light pruning may be carried out to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.

Fertilising

Apply fertiliser sparingly during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich all-plant fertiliser every 4 months.

Mulching

Keep the soil mulched with Pine Bark Mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and protect the root system.

Pests & Diseases

Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) to assist in preventing common garden pests.

Harvesting

Produces fragrant white flowers followed by distinctive orange fruits that split open to reveal bright red seeds. The fruit attracts birds and adds ornamental interest to the garden.