Chrysojasminum fruticans aka Yellow Jasmine

Chrysojasminum fruticans is a shrub in the olive family, Oleaceae. Common names include wild jasmine and common yellow jasmine. Its older name is Jasminum fruticans. Its native range runs from the Mediterranean to northern Iran. It grows in temperate regions and is not native to Britain or Ireland. The shrub may keep all or part of its foliage through winter.

It has an upright form, with dense or open growth. Garden plants reach about 3–6 feet [0.9–1.8 m] tall. RHS gives a smaller height range of 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 m]. It lists the same range for the spread. Plants take about five to ten years to reach full size. Slender green stems have four angles. The glossy green leaves grow alternately along them. Most leaves have three leaflets, a form called trifoliate. The narrow leaflets reach about 0.8 inches long. Alternate leaves help distinguish this shrub from some yellow-flowered jasmines.

The yellow flowers have a light scent and a trumpet shape. They grow in small clusters at the stem tips. Each cluster holds one to four flowers. The flowers have five petals, though NC State also records four. Sources differ on the main flowering season. NC State reports strong spring bloom and fewer flowers in early autumn. RHS places flowering in summer. Glossy black berries follow the flowers. They can stay on the shrub from autumn through winter. The flowers attract pollinators and add colour to garden borders.

Grow this shrub in sun or partial shade. Choose a sheltered site with soil that drains well. NC State favours fertile, moist soil, but notes tolerance of occasional dryness. RHS lists chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. It also accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. NC State lists USDA zones 7–11; RHS gives a UK rating of H5. The shrub suits foundation planting, cottage gardens and beds beside walls. Gardeners can train it against a wall. Summer semi-ripe cuttings and autumn layering offer ways to make new plants.

Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon, but weak wood can cause trouble. Aphids, scale insects and mealybugs may attack the plant. RHS also lists glasshouse red spider mite and rare honey fungus. NC State marks it as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses. These sources do not establish that people can eat its fruit.