Why Winter Jasmine Blooms in the Cold

A Chinese Native Out of Sync With Local Pollinators

Jasminum nudiflorum arrived from China in 1844. Two theories explain its winter bloom:

1. In its native mild‑winter habitat, insects are active during flowering.
2. All U.S. plants may descend from a single introduction, making them self‑incompatible—pollen from a different Chinese plant is needed for seed set.

Regardless, the bright yellow flowers on green stems provide winter cheer. Propagate by layering stems in summer.