Asiatic jasmine

trachelospermum asiaticum

Also known as: ["Star Jasmine","Satin Jasmine"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Trachelospermum Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, evergreen vine with glossy, dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers in summer.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Trachelospermum
Botanical Name: Trachelospermum asiaticum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or as a climbing vine on a trellis
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with nodes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears 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 for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of stems; heading back to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; add fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing conditions.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid watering when soil is cold.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse container after use.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Trachelospermum asiaticum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Trachelospermum asiaticum can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Trachelospermum asiaticum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and aesthetic damage to the foliage.

Rotting in Trachelospermum asiaticum is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Trachelospermum asiaticum. The berries are more likely to cause noticeable symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Trachelospermum asiaticum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The berries may cause more pronounced symptoms if consumed in larger amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of pets. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Trachelospermum asiaticum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The berries are particularly noted for their potential to induce mild toxicity if ingested in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact, especially with berries. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Asiatic jasmine invasive?

A: It can be invasive in some regions if not managed properly, but it is generally well-behaved in garden settings.

Q: Does it require full sun?

A: It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sun for best flowering.

Q: How fast does it grow?

A: It is a moderately fast grower, spreading quickly to form a dense ground cover.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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