Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) - fragrant evergreen climber - 9 cm pot - Height 35 cm - Pack of 2

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is considered semi-hardy: it can withstand light, occasional frosts down to around -5°C, provided it is planted against a warm, south-facing wall that retains heat and creates a favorable microclimate. Below this temperature or during prolonged frosts, the foliage may turn brown and young stems may freeze. To ensure safe overwintering, mulch the base generously (dead leaves, bark, straw) and protect the stems with a non-woven winter fleece.

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) absolutely requires full sun to perform at its best. A south- or southwest-facing wall is its ideal location: the heat absorbed by the wall stimulates flowering and improves resistance to winter cold. Light partial shade is tolerated, but results in sparse flowering and less glossy foliage. Avoid north-facing orientations and very shaded areas, where the plant languishes and blooms almost not at all.

Unlike ivy or Boston ivy, star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) does not have self-clinging rootlets or suckers to attach itself to a bare wall. It needs a support to climb around: install a wooden or metal trellis, horizontal wires spaced 30 to 40 cm apart, or guide it towards a pergola, which it will naturally wrap around. When planting, tie the first stems to the support with flexible ties and direct them in the desired direction of growth.

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) begins flowering from the end of May in the mildest regions of southern France, and in June in more temperate regions. The flowering period lasts four to six weeks, into July, offering a profusion of small pure white star-shaped flowers with a slightly yellowish center. The fragrance, intense and sweet, close to that of true jasmine, is particularly pronounced in the evening and on warm days. On a well-established adult plant in full sun, the flowering is very generous and covers all the dark green evergreen foliage.

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) grows very well in a pot on a south-facing balcony or terrace, provided you choose a sufficiently large container, at least 30 to 40 cm in diameter, so that the roots have enough room. Use a well-draining potting mix made of quality multipurpose compost mixed with 20 to 30% perlite to prevent waterlogging. Water regularly in summer, as pots dry out quickly in the heat, and apply a liquid fertilizer for flowering plants every two weeks from May to the end of July.

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) can be incorporated into mixed compositions where it serves as a structuring climber on a vertical support. It pairs beautifully with other climbers such as summer-flowering clematis (alternating for extended flowering) or climbing roses, which enjoy the same sunny exposures. At its base, lavender, rosemary, or sage complement its dark foliage and Mediterranean fragrance.

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) has a moderate growth rate, which sets it apart from aggressive climbers such as honeysuckle or hops. Under optimal conditions (full sun, fertile, well-drained soil, and regular watering), it grows an average of 50 to 100 cm of new stems per year once well established. The first season is often devoted to establishing roots, with modest above-ground growth: this is perfectly normal. From the second season, and especially the third, growth accelerates significantly and flowering becomes abundant.