How to Grow Trachelospermum

Trachelospermum are more commonly known as ‘Star Jasmine’ and are evergreen climbing shrubs with attractive glossy foliage. Leaves will change colour from green to red during the winter with highly fragrant white flowers that are often followed by bean-like seed pods. Trachelospermum are best suited to wall side borders or used as hedging and screening within courtyard, cottage and informal garden settings. You should expect to see your shrubs grow to an approximate height of 6m (20’) and a spread of 60cm (24”). Trachelospermum are native to Japan and the Far East.

Trachelospermum are best planted in well-drained soil of loam, chalk and sand within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. They are best positioned in an area of full sun or part shade, preferably against a warm sheltered wall. Newly planted climbers will need to have some of their stems tied until the plant navigates its own way through any supporting feature or framework.

Once the flowering period has finished, Trachelospermum should be pruned back to fit the space available. Trachelospermum are generally very low maintenance, however to help promote new growth you may wish to feed your shrubs with a slow release fertiliser during the spring. Make sure your shrubs are well watered throughout active growth until they are well-established.

It is possible to propagate Trachelospermum by layering, or alternatively by semi-hardwood cuttings.