Plant Bio

White Thevetia Peruviana, also known as Thevetia neriifolia or simply Thevetia, is an evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its attractive foliage and showy, trumpet-shaped flowers. Belonging to the Apocynaceae family, it is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, including Mexico, Peru, and the Caribbean. Here's a general description:

Foliage: White Thevetia Peruviana features lanceolate to oblong leaves arranged alternately along the stems. The leaves are glossy, leathery, and dark green in color, measuring 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length. They provide an attractive backdrop for the plant's striking flowers.
Flowers: The main attraction of White Thevetia Peruviana is its abundant clusters of fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, which bloom profusely from spring to fall in warm climates. The flowers are typically white or creamy-yellow in color, with a yellow or orange throat and a contrasting dark center. Each flower measures 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) across and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Fruit: After flowering, White Thevetia Peruviana may produce small, round, green fruits resembling berries. These fruits contain seeds surrounded by a fleshy pulp but are generally not as ornamental as the flowers.
Growth Habit: White Thevetia Peruviana grows as a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) with a spread of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters). It has a dense, bushy growth habit and a rounded to oval canopy.

Care Guide for White Thevetia Peruviana:

Light: Provide full sunlight for White Thevetia Peruviana to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Plant it in a location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate partial shade, insufficient light may result in reduced flowering and sparse foliage.
Temperature: White Thevetia Peruviana thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates and is sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C) and should be protected from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil: Plant White Thevetia Peruviana in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). A loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or aged manure works well. Ensure that the soil retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering: Water White Thevetia Peruviana regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, especially during periods of active growth and flowering. Allow the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and adjust the frequency based on local weather conditions and soil moisture levels.
Fertilization: Feed White Thevetia Peruviana with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs and trees in spring and summer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning: Prune White Thevetia Peruviana as needed to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and promote air circulation within the canopy. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use sharp, sterilized pruning tools to make clean cuts and minimize the risk of disease transmission.
Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3-inch (5 to 7.5-centimeter) layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the base of White Thevetia Peruviana to conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues and stem rot.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor White Thevetia Peruviana regularly for signs of common pests such as aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overcrowding to minimize the risk of fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot.
Propagation: Propagate White Thevetia Peruviana from semi-hardwood stem cuttings taken from healthy, mature plants. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light until roots develop.
Container Growing: White Thevetia Peruviana can be grown in containers or large pots filled with well-draining potting mix. Choose a container with drainage holes and water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Repot the plant into a slightly larger container every 2 to 3 years to provide room for root growth.

By following these care guidelines, you can cultivate a healthy and beautiful White Thevetia Peruviana plant adorned with its fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, enhancing the beauty of your garden or landscape with its ornamental appeal. Adjust the care routine based on your local climate, soil conditions, and growing preferences to ensure optimal growth and flowering.