Wrightia religiosa, commonly known as Water Jasmine, is a deciduous to semi-deciduous tree native to open woodlands and riverine landscapes in Southeast Asia, including China (Guangdong), Indochina, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It typically grows to a height of 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters) when cultivated as a bonsai but can reach up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) in its natural habitat. The species is characterized by its glossy green leaves and small, pendulous white flowers that emit a fragrance reminiscent of true jasmine, blooming from late spring to early fall. The flowers are highly showy and attract pollinators.

Water Jasmine is celebrated for its ease of maintenance and the beauty of its fragrant blooms, making it a favored choice for bonsai cultivation, particularly in the pagodas of Indo-China. It is also used in tropical and subtropical gardens as an ornamental plant for its aesthetic appeal. In cultivation, it requires well-draining soil, moderate watering, and thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. While it is relatively disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0