Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides): Fragrant Vine for Sun or Shade

The intoxicating fragrance of star jasmine's white blossoms perfumes the air from spring into early summer, while its glossy, deep green foliage provides year-round structure. Whether trained on a trellis, cascading over a wall, or spreading as a ground cover, this versatile evergreen adds elegance to any landscape.

Hortus Oasis

Plant Profile

• Botanical name: Trachelospermum jasminoides
• Common names: Confederate jasmine, star jasmine, trader's compass
• Origin: Eastern Asia—Japan, Korea, southern China, Vietnam
• Hardiness: 10°F (-18°C), USDA Zone 8
• Water: Moderate—deep watering every 10 days in summer, twice monthly otherwise; weekly in low-desert summers
• Light: Full sun to filtered shade; avoid hot western exposure; partial shade best in low desert
• Mature size: 1–2 feet tall × 6 feet wide as ground cover; 15–20 feet as vine
• Benefits: Somewhat deer-resistant; flowers attract bees
• Seasonal interest: Spring–summer flowers; bronze-tinged winter foliage
• Planting time: Spring or fall

Icos Gardening & Landscape

Distinguishing Traits

The lustrous dark green leaves create a perfect foil for masses of small, five-petaled white flowers that emerge from pink buds. New growth is bright green, deepening over time. As a climber, it reaches 20 feet; as a ground cover, stems root where they touch soil, forming a dense mat.

Note: It can be aggressive—give it room, keep other plants several feet away, or contain it with hardscaping or containers.

Tulinda's Garden, LLC

Bliss Garden Design

Landscape Uses

Star jasmine adapts to formal and naturalistic designs alike.

• Trellis/wire grid: Train in geometric patterns for dramatic effect—requires frequent pruning.
• Pergola, archway, or fence: Screen views or frame entries with fragrant blooms.
• Ground cover: Provides cooling, dark green carpet in summer.
• Container: Ideal for colder zones—move indoors for winter.

Britton & Associates

Trained on a decorative trellis at an entry.

Art in Green

Native Edge Landscape

Planting and Care Notes

Not fussy about soil—tolerates acidic to alkaline. Plant in full sun to partial shade, avoiding hot afternoon sun (especially in low deserts). Let the top 3 inches of soil dry between waterings. Fertilize in spring; prune after flowering in summer if needed to control size.

Caution: In warm, humid climates it can be invasive; best suited to arid gardens or contained plantings.