Climber
Star jasmine
Trachelospermum jasminoides
An evergreen climber with fragrant white flowers and stems that twine around supports. It can grow large in mild climates. Cold regions require a sheltered site and suitable overwintering; the milky sap may irritate skin and eyes.
- Size
- 8–12 m high · 4–8 m wide
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Needs protection
- Seasonal form
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- The 8–12 m height range describes a large climber's potential in a favourable climate, not the size of a potted specimen in Poland.
- Provide sturdy supports, sun or partial shade and shelter from cold winds. The soil should drain excess water.
- Where winters are harsh, plan container growing and a bright, cool overwintering space protected from severe frost. Cover alone cannot guarantee survival outdoors.
Why choose it
- White, star-shaped flowers have a pronounced fragrance.
- Leathery leaves cover the support outside the flowering season where the plant overwinters well.
Care
- Water after planting and check container moisture regularly. Do not leave roots in standing water.
- Guide young stems onto supports. Remove damaged shoots in spring; light trimming to limit size can be done after flowering.
- Wear gloves when pruning and keep milky sap away from skin and eyes. Wash hands after handling.
Good to know
- The common name does not place it in the genus Jasminum. It is also distinct from mock orange, Philadelphus.
- Winter cold may discolour or damage leaves. Evergreen foliage does not promise reliable overwintering everywhere.