Milky Way Tree (Tabernaemontana litoralis): Fragrant Tropical Beauty

The Milky Way tree, also known as lecheso, is a small evergreen tree native to coastal forests of Central and South America. It is prized for its glossy foliage, intensely fragrant white flowers, and distinctive paired fruits that resemble miniature bananas.

Botanical Profile

• Family: Apocynaceae (dogbane family)
• Genus: Tabernaemontana
• Species: litoralis
• Synonyms: Stemmadenia galeottiana, S. insignis, S. litoralis

Features

Grows 15–25 feet tall with a rounded canopy. Leaves are opposite, elliptical, glossy dark green. Flowers are tubular, white, 1–2 inches long, with a powerful sweet fragrance (especially at night), borne in clusters. Fruit is a pair of curved, yellow-orange follicles (3–5 inches) that split open to reveal seeds embedded in bright red pulp.

Culture

Full sun to part shade, moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Tropical to subtropical (USDA zones 10–11). Not frost-tolerant. Regular water and fertilizer promote lush growth and bloom. Can be grown in large containers and moved indoors in cold climates.

Uses

Specimen tree for fragrance gardens, patio containers, tropical landscapes. The latex is toxic; site away from play areas.