Confederate Jasmine

clerodendrum chinense

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

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Clerodendrum Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, twining vine with fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers and glossy green leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Clerodendrum
Botanical Name: Clerodendrum chinense

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor garden spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates to maintain humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid excessive pruning.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense afternoon rays; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

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

Soil

well-draining, fertile potting mix with organic matter

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps is also effective.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix or water; can use perlite or sand for better aeration.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

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

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 deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

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

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover outdoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced flowering; may require more frequent watering in high heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Clerodendrum chinense can be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake and plant stability.

Leaf spots on Clerodendrum chinense may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Clerodendrum chinense is often a result of excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Clerodendrum chinense can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if ingested. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant and consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Clerodendrum chinense can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Clerodendrum chinense contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and wear gloves when handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
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 Confederate Jasmine invasive?

A: It can be invasive in some regions, particularly in warm climates where it spreads aggressively via runners.

Q: How often should I water Confederate Jasmine?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during blooming periods.

Q: Does Confederate Jasmine require full sun?

A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, though partial shade is preferred in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.

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