Serissa foetida, Serissa japonica, Serissa crassiramea

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Serissa foetida is a small shrub that grows 2-5 ft tall and is hardy in USDA Zone 9-11. It is suitable for growing in pots in cold climates, as long as it is overwintered indoors and provided with adequate light, warmth, and ventilation. It should be placed in full sun or semi-shade and requires regular watering during hot and dry weather. The soil should be kept slightly moist, and liquid fertilizer should be applied every two weeks when the plants are actively growing.

This species is drought tolerant and has showy white or off-white flowers that bloom throughout the year. It requires very little maintenance and is often used for bonsai. To maintain its shape and encourage further flower production, prune as needed and remove fading flowers.

The plant is valued for its neat habit, good coverage of branches, and long flowering time. The leaves are oval, deep green, and rather thick, and have an unpleasant smell if bruised. The trunk is rough and grey, and tends to get lighter in color with age. The Serissa foetida flowers practically all year round, but particularly from spring to fall. There are also cultivars with double flowers or variegated leaves, such as 'Pink Snow Rose' with pale pink flowers and off-white edged leaves.