Chilean Jasmine (Mandevilla laxa): Fragrant, Frost-Tolerant Vine for Northern California

Chilean jasmine (Mandevilla laxa) is a highly fragrant, surprisingly frost-tolerant vine that deserves wider use in Northern California gardens. Unlike its popular but less hardy cousins M. 'Alice du Pont' and M. splendens 'Red Riding Hood', Chilean jasmine thrives in Sunset climate zones 7–9 and 14–17 (all but mountain areas). It prefers full sun near the coast and light shade inland, and requires less heat to bloom than other mandevillas.

Standout Features

The gardenia-like fragrance of its snowy white, 2-inch-wide summer flowers sets this vine apart. Plant it near a patio to enjoy the perfume on balmy evenings.

Care Requirements

• Soil: Well-amended, evenly moist
• Support: Provide a trellis or similar structure; vine can reach 15 feet tall
• Pruning: Thin or cut back if growth becomes tangled