Banana Bush

Tabernaemontana pandacaqui is a semi-deciduous shrub or small tree growing from 2-4m width approximately 2.5m, dark green leaves are opposite and hairless to 9cm, the plant has milky sap. 

Native to coastal south Queensland and northern New South Wales found in rainforests. Spring-summer it has attractive perfumed 5 petalled white windmill flowers to 25mm growing in groups. Another name for this plant is Windmill Bush. Flowers are followed by 2 or more opposing poisonous banana shaped yellow fruit/seed capsules to 4.5cm which open to show 3-16 poisonous red seeds.

After it is established the banana bush will become drought hardy losing its leaves becoming dormant. It can be grown in pots or tubs in the home garden in a semi-shaded spot sheltered from wind. It is frost tender and needs rich soil with good drainage.

It is said that the first nations people from Queensland used the fruit rubbed on sores to assist healing. It is also said that the bark has been used for tropical fever.

Check it out at the Maroochy Regional Botanic Bush Gardens, Palm Creek Road, Tanawha, where a bush can be found in fruit/seed at the A & E Centre.    Photo: Greg Miller Photography