Star Jasmine
Trachelospermum jasminoides
Star jasmine is an elegant, twining evergreen climber producing highly fragrant, pure white, star-shaped flowers from June to August. Its glossy, dark green leaves turn bronze-red in winter, providing year-round interest. Increasingly popular in UK gardens, it is hardy in sheltered spots across most of England and Wales but needs a warm wall in colder regions.
How to grow star jasmine
Plant against a warm, sheltered south or west-facing wall in well-drained soil. Star jasmine is hardy to around -10°C in a sheltered position but struggles in cold, exposed sites or heavy clay. Provide wires or trellis for the twining stems. Water regularly during the first two years and mulch in spring. In colder regions, grow in a large container with loam-based compost and move to a frost-free spot for winter. Feed in spring and midsummer with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Star jasmine is slow to establish in the first year or two but becomes vigorous once its root system develops. Protect from cold, drying winds.
Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering in late summer to maintain shape and remove any frost-damaged or straggly growth. Star jasmine flowers on the previous year's wood, so avoid cutting back too hard or you will lose next year's blooms. Thin out overcrowded stems as needed. Established plants tolerate moderate renovation pruning in spring.
Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings
- Layering
Common problems
- Frost damage in harsh winters
- Scale insects
- Leaf yellowing in alkaline soil
Good companions
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