Trachelospermum jasminoides aka Star Jasmine

Taxonomy

Trachelospermum jasminoides, also known as Confederate jasmine, southern jasmine, star jasmine, Confederate jessamine, and Chinese star jasmine, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. Native to eastern and southeastern Asia, including Japan, Korea, southern China, and Vietnam, this vigorous, evergreen, twining climber can reach a height of 7-9m. It features glossy dark green, oval leaves that are 5-8cm in length, often turning deep red in winter. Throughout the summer, it produces profuse clusters of highly fragrant, pure white flowers measuring 2.5cm in width. This plant has gained recognition for its beauty, as both Trachelospermum jasminoides and its variegated cultivar 'Variegatum' have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Confederate jasmine, or star jasmine, is a popular choice for both ground cover and climbing vines. Its white blossoms, which attract bees, emit a delightful fragrance. Native to China and Japan, it can reach a mature height and spread of 3 to 6 feet. To maintain an even height, it is recommended to prune any upward reaching shoots. This versatile plant can be trained to grow on trellises, doorways, and posts, adding beauty and fragrance to any setting. Trachelospermum jasminoides is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant and houseplant, finding its place in gardens, public landscapes, parks, and even potted arrangements on terraces and patios. However, caution should be exercised as it can become invasive on forest edges and disturbed sites near cultivation.

Common names

Star Jasmine, Confederate Jasmine, Chinese Star Jessamine

How to care for Star Jasmine

Difficulty

Star Jasmine presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Star Jasmine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Star Jasmine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Star Jasmine thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Chinese Star Jessamine.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Star Jasmine to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Star Jasmine is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Star Jasmine. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Region of origin

Star Jasmine’s native range is southern and eastern Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia