Trachelospermum jasminoides (Confederate Jasmine)

Trachelospermum jasminoides, commonly known as star jasmine or Confederate jasmine, is an evergreen woody vine in the Apocynaceae family, native to eastern and southeastern Asia. Despite its common name, it is not a true jasmine and does not belong to the genus Jasminum. The vigorous twining stems carry glossy, leathery, dark green oval leaves, with new growth sometimes tinged bronze or reddish. In late spring and summer, plants produce abundant clusters of intensely fragrant white flowers. Each flower has five spreading, twisted lobes arranged like a small pinwheel or star. Established vines can reach 15-20 ft and form a dense evergreen covering on supports.

Trachelospermum jasminoides grows well in full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil with regular moisture while becoming established. Mature plants tolerate moderate drought and considerable heat, although flowering is generally best with good light. It can be trained on trellises, fences, walls, and arbors or allowed to spread as a dense groundcover. Pruning after flowering helps control vigorous growth. It is suitable outdoors in USDA Zones 8-11, with established plants tolerating brief temperatures into the teens Fahrenheit, although foliage and young growth may be damaged by frost.