Star Jasmine
Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is an evergreen climbing vine in the plant family Apocynaceae. It typically grows between 4-6 feet tall, but can reach up to 10 feet with support. Its glossy, oval leaves are dark green, and its fragrant white star-shaped flowers bloom in summer and offer an amazing scent. It’s a great evergreen plant to grow and cover a patio, arbor, or another structure. In cooler areas, this plant can suffer from frost damage and may require winter protection.
When it comes to watering, Star Jasmine likes humidity and regular watering but with good drainage. During the growing season (summer months), make sure to keep the soil of this plant moist but not soggy. Cut back on watering in the winter months as the plant goes dormant; watering once every two weeks should be enough during this time.
Star Jasmine does best in either bright indirect or dappled sunlight. If growing it indoors, it can cope in low light spots but keep in mind it’s likely to flower less. Some variegated forms of this plant require longer hours of sunlight to maintain their variegation. Avoid direct sunlight as it tends to burn the foliage.
This plant tolerates seasonal temperature changes in a range from 40-85°F (4-29°C). It’s also quite sensitive to frost, and the occasional overnight freeze can damage the plant, so make sure to move it indoors or cover it if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Star Jasmine does best in average household humidities, with occasional mistings. During the summer months, you can also place a humidifier nearby. If you’re growing Star Jasmine indoors, set its humidifier near a heat vent or radiator, because the air will be slightly drier in that area.
Star Jasmine prefers a well-draining soil with a slightly acidic or neutral pH. Use a potting mix that contains some organic material such as peat moss, perlite, and pumice. Also add in some slow-release fertilizer and compost to boost the nutrient content of the soil.
Star Jasmine requires less fertilization, so aim to fertilize the plant only once or twice a year. If you’re growing it outdoors, fertilize it in spring and late summer using a balanced fertilizer for acid-loving plants like Azaleas. When giving a fertilizer to an indoor Star Jasmine, use a low balanced slow release product meant for shrubs or houseplants. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots, so never overwater it or use too much fertilizer
Just like other plants, Star Jasmine can be susceptible to common houseplant pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. The best method of control is to apply insecticidal soap and/or neem oil. To provide prevention, keep your jasmine away from other plants that may be infected and regularly check for pests and signs of infection.
It’s a good idea to repot Star Jasmine every two or three years, or when the soil has become completely depleted of nutrients. Spring is the best time for repotting, as the growing season allows the plant to recover from the stress of transplanting. Choose a pot one size bigger and make sure to use fresh and nutrient-rich potting soil.
This plant requires regular pruning to keep its shape and to promote new growth. Prune in spring, and pruning should focus on removing dead, sick, or damaged branches, as well as keeping the plant in shape. After pruning, cut back on watering for a few days to prevent drooping leaves.
Mulching could be beneficial for Star Jasmine, as it helps retain moisture in the soil and keep weeds at bay. Choose a mulch such as shredded bark or organic material which can help improve drainage and keep the plant’s soil temperature relatively constant.
You can propagate Star Jasmine through stem cuttings or division. Take stem cuttings in summer, and place them into a potting mix with some organic material. Dip the ends of the cuttings in rooting powder, put them in a shady spot, and mist them daily. They should root within a few weeks. To propagate by division, gently dig around the rootball and carefully tease out the roots. Then, separate the plant into several parts and replant each part in a prepared spot.
While this plant is designed to climb and cover a structure, it’s important to give it plenty of support. The most popular support option for this plant is a trellis, but you can also use stakes, posts, or walls. Make sure the structure can handle the weight of the vine as it grows.
Star Jasmine is considered a deciduous plant, meaning it experiences a “rest period” during the colder winter months when it slows down growth and prepares for the next growing season. During this time, make sure to reduce the amount of water and fertilizer given to the plant.
Star Jasmine is not considered toxic to pets such as cats and dogs.
Amethyst Star
Cryptanthus bivittatus, commonly known as Amethyst Star, is a species of terrestrial Bromeliad, native to the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil....
Arabian Jasmine
Known for its fragrant white flowers which are used to make perfumes and teas, Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) is an evergreen species of jasmine th...
Blue Star Fern
The Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium aureum) is an evergreen plant native to tropical rainforest regions found in Southeast Asia. It is also known as the “r...
Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis) is an evergreen perennial herb originating from New Zealand that puts out a carpet of star-shaped, sky-blue fl...
Earth Star
Earth Star is a succulent perennial that has attractive and unusual foliage. It belongs to the plant family Bromeliaceae. The genus Cryptanthus includ...
Elegant Blazing Star
Elegant Blazing Star, or Liatris elegans, is a hardy, upright plant renowned for its long blooming flower spikes and bright color. The plant thrives i...