Jasminum polyanthum
Jasminum polyanthum, known for its intoxicating fragrance and rapid growth, is an evergreen climbing plant native to south-western China and Myanmar. It is particularly admired for its abundant blooming of highly fragrant white tubular flowers, grouped in terminal inflorescences. The buds, with their delicate pink hue, create a charming two-tone effect that adds to the plant’s ornamental appeal.
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Order: Lamiales
Family: Oleaceae
Genus: Jasminum
Species: J. polyanthum
Foliage
The leaves are compound and pinnate, typically consisting of 5 to 7 elongated oval leaflets with a deep green colour. The leaf margins are entire, and the surface may be either smooth or slightly pubescent, giving the plant an interesting texture. Arranged oppositely along the stems, the foliage contributes to the plant’s lush and vigorous appearance.
Flowering
Flowering occurs from late winter to early spring, when the plant becomes covered in intensely fragrant white tubular flowers grouped in terminal clusters. The pale pink buds create a striking two-tone visual effect that lasts for several weeks, attracting attention even from a distance. This prolonged and aromatic bloom makes it highly valued in ornamental gardens and as a houseplant.
Light and climate
This species thrives in bright, even sunny locations, but it does not tolerate prolonged frost. It is ideal for protected settings such as unheated greenhouses, conservatories, or as an indoor plant in colder climates. Cold tolerance is limited: it does not survive temperatures below 0 °C and requires consistent humidity to thrive. In temperate regions, it should be sheltered during winter.
Cultivation
Jasminum polyanthum requires fertile, well-draining soil. Watering should be regular during the growing season and reduced in winter when the plant goes dormant. In warmer climates, it can be planted directly in the ground, whereas in colder areas it is best grown in containers so it can be moved indoors during the colder months.
Propagation
This plant propagates easily via semi-hardwood cuttings or by layering during spring and summer. To encourage root development, it’s important to maintain a warm and humid environment. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, young stems, and layers can be separated once roots have formed.
Notes
Jasminum polyanthum can become invasive in subtropical areas where it finds favourable conditions for naturalisation. Due to its sensitivity to cold and potential for unchecked growth, container cultivation is recommended. Particularly when planted in open soil, regular pruning is advisable, especially during the growing season, to control its spread and maintain a tidy appearance.
Immagine di Davide Giuseppe Zannini