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 JessamineHow 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
To ensure optimal growth, the Star Jasmine prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
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.
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
