Jasminum officinale
This is the classic summer jasmine grown for intensely scented white flowers. It is a vigorous deciduous climber that twines onto trellises and pergolas. Bloom begins in early summer and often continues into early fall in warm sites. Plants do best in full sun with shelter from cold winds. In much of the northern United States it is container grown and overwintered indoors. Give it a sturdy support and regular pruning to manage length.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: deciduous climber
- Height × spread: 20–40 ft (6–12 m) × 5–15 ft (1.5–4.5 m)
- Bloom window: summer to early fall
- Color & flower form: white star‑shaped clusters
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: zones 7–10
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, unknown, native to Transcaucasus to South‑Central China
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- More cold tolerant than tropical jasmines such as Jasminum sambac.
- Deciduous habit versus evergreen jasmines common in frost‑free climates.
- Long, trainable stems for structures rather than a freestanding shrub form.
- Pure white summer bloom versus yellow winter jasmine that flowers in late winter.
Strengths
- Highly fragrant summer display
- Adaptable to average garden soils with good drainage
- Responds well to pruning and training
- Valued by pollinators in warm weather
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to light afternoon shade; sheltered from harsh wind.
- Soil: well‑drained loam; moderately fertile; neutral to slightly alkaline.
- Water: regular during establishment; then deep soak in dry spells.
- Feeding: light spring feed; avoid heavy nitrogen that promotes lank growth.
- Prune: after main bloom; remove old thin canes and shorten long whips.
- Overwinter: in zones colder than 7, grow in a container and protect indoors.
Watch‑outs
- Needs strong support and seasonal pruning to prevent tangles
- Aphids and spider mites can appear, especially under glass
- Not hardy in areas colder than zone 7
Best uses (tags)
climbers, pergolas, walls, pollinators, containers
Provenance note
Native from the Caucasus east to South‑Central China; cultivated in Europe for centuries for its perfume value.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Jasminum officinale
- NC State Extension – Jasminum officinale
- ASPCA – Jasmine (Jasminum species) non‑toxic to pets
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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