Tabernaemontana hystrix aka Brazilian Erra Janta Chettu

Tabernaemontana hystrix is an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Its native range covers west-central and eastern Brazil. It grows in tropical regions with a dry season. Its forest homes include open ground and areas of regrowth. It also occurs in dense forest with less disturbance. These forests lose some of their leaves each year.

The plant grows fast and forms a low, dense crown. Garden listings give a height and spread of 16 feet [5 metres]. Other accounts place its height at 13–20 feet [4–6 metres]. Its trunk tends to be short and bent. Trunk width reaches about 0.8–1 foot [0.25–0.30 metres]. It keeps its leaves year-round. Sources show flowers and fruit, but give no flowering season. The fruits open to expose flesh and seeds. Birds feed on the large fruit crop each year.

A sunny site suits this tree best. The growing guidance rules out shade for established plants. It prefers moist soil that drains well. It can grow in sand, loam, or clay. It also accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 10–12. Fresh seed can start new plants in sun or partial shade. Use a nursery bed or separate pots for sowing. Reported germination exceeds 80 percent, with sprouts appearing in 30–40 days. Stored seed can remain viable for at least ten months.

This species helps bring native woodland back to cleared land. Its quick growth lets it take hold in open areas. Its fruit also draws birds to these sites. Sources describe it as an ornamental tree for narrow streets. They also suggest planting it beneath power lines. People harvest its wood for local use. The wood is soft and light, but decays with ease. Uses include boards, rafters, beams, fuel, and charcoal.

Its ability to spread can cause problems in pasture. It produces seedlings freely and sends shoots from its roots. This can make it a serious weed on grazing land. Neither source reports known food or medicinal uses. Both list no known hazards. That wording does not establish safety for people or pets.