Trachelospermum jasminoides aka Star Jasmine

Trachelospermum jasminoides is an evergreen vine called star jasmine. Confederate jasmine is another name for this dogbane family member. It is not a true jasmine, despite its scent. Its native range extends from Japan and China to Vietnam. It grows along sunny forest edges and in scrub. Its woody stems twist around nearby plants or garden supports.

Supported plants often reach 10–20 feet [3–6 metres] tall. RHS gives a larger garden range of 26–39 feet [8–12 metres]. Its listed spread is 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. As ground cover, it stands about 2 feet [0.6 metres] high. Young shoots have hairs, but older stems become smooth. Cut stems release a sticky, white sap. The leaves grow in pairs and have smooth edges. They feel leathery, with dark, glossy tops and paler undersides. New leaves can show bronze or purple tones. Winter leaves may turn a deep red-bronze shade.

Small flower clusters carry a strong, sweet scent. Each white or cream flower has five twisted lobes. These give the blooms a shape like a pinwheel. Flowers measure about an inch across and draw bees. Bloom dates differ with the growing region. North Carolina reports late spring, with scattered blooms in summer. RHS places flowering in mid to late summer. The fruit consists of two long follicles. These seed pods turn dark and appear in fall.

Grow it in rich soil that drains well. Sun gives the best flowers, though it accepts partial shade. Shelter it from cold winds, and provide climbing support. Established plants can cope with drought. Sources place it in USDA zones 8–10 and UK class H4. Cold regions can grow it in pots brought indoors for winter. It suits fences, trellises, arbors, screens, and clipped hedges. It also serves as ground cover or a houseplant. Pruning helps keep its stems within the space available. Cuttings and layering offer ways to raise new plants.

Serious pest and disease trouble is uncommon, but Japanese beetles may feed on it. Scale can occur outdoors; mealybugs and spider mites can occur under glass. Honey fungus is another possible problem. Some sources report resistance to deer and rabbits. PFAF lists no known food uses, despite records of traditional medicine. Those records do not establish safe or proven treatments. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.