Madagascar Jasmine
stephanotis floribunda
Also known as: ["Waxflower","Sampaguita Vine"]
Overview
A woody vine native to Madagascar, known for its fragrant, waxy white flowers and twining growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Stephanotis |
| Botanical Name: | Stephanotis floribunda |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or protected outdoor trellis
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (60–65°F) in winter promote flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before flowering; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), wilting or leaf drop (heat), slowed growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not waterlogged.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; flowers may drop prematurely.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; water before fertilizing; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Stephanotis floribunda. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, necessitating urgent veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Stephanotis floribunda by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects. The plant's toxins can cause significant distress and require prompt veterinary attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicStephanotis floribunda contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress when ingested. The plant's effects are primarily gastrointestinal and neurological, leading to discomfort and potential systemic complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Stephanotis floribunda?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, reducing frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Madagascar Jasmine require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies; adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light or parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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