Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Ogon Nishiki' (Gold Brocade Asiatic Jasmine)

Moderately frost hardy vine that grows in full sun to full shade, asian jasmine has oval leaves 1-2 inches long that are glossy and dark green. It has a compact habit and will grow prostrate on the ground or cling to a wall. It is the answer for anyone wanting that elusive combination: an evergreen climber with heavily scented flowers. The foliage is neat and unobtrusive, and makes a good background for the clusters of creamy white flowers that appear in mid-summer. It is particularly good for growing over an arch or arbour where the delicious perfume can be best appreciated.

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Ogon Nishiki' (Golden Brocade Asian Jasmine) is a highly ornamental variegated cultivar distinguished by its exceptionally colorful foliage. New leaves emerge vivid orange to amber with irregular dark green markings, then gradually change through bright golden yellow to creamy ivory as they mature. Older leaves retain varying amounts of dark green, so several stages of coloration are usually present at the same time, producing the richly mottled "gold brocade" effect reflected in the cultivar name. In cooler weather the foliage may also develop reddish to bronze tones.

The cultivar is grown primarily for its changing multicolored foliage, although established plants can also produce small, strongly fragrant creamy-white flowers that become more yellowish with age. Its colorful trailing or twining growth is particularly effective as a groundcover, cascading container plant, or low climber.