Not everything that is called jasmine is botanically a true jasmine. The name jasmine is commonly used for flowering plants that have a scent like jasmine but don’t necessarily belong to the genus Jasminum. Asiatic jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) with its fragrant pale yellow flowers is one of them.
Unlike jasmine shrubs and vines, Asiatic jasmine is a sprawling ground cover—it does not climb much, unlike its close cousin, star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides). The dense evergreen foliage that grows close to the ground makes Asiatic jasmine an ideal cover for bare spots around and underneath shrubs and trees, or for cascading down a wall. That it is also fast-growing adds to its appeal as a ground cover. The only caveat is that Asiatic jasmine is an introduced plant, and because it spreads so vigorously and aggressively, it has the potential to become invasive.
While the original species has small, star-shaped flowers in the spring and summer, not all varieties have fragrant flowers but are instead grown for their stunning foliage.
There are also cultivars that dont spread quite as much, which makes them suitable for growing in hanging baskets or planters.
Asiatic jasmine vine, also known as Trachelospermum asiaticum, is a popular climbing plant that adds beauty and fragrance to gardens and landscapes With its shiny green foliage and dainty star-shaped flowers, it’s easy to see why this plant has become a favorite for gardeners But did you know there are actually several different varieties of Asiatic jasmine vine to choose from? Each type has its own unique features and benefits. In this complete guide, we will explore the different types of Asiatic jasmine vines so you can find the perfect one for your space.
An Overview of Asiatic Jasmine Vines
Asiatic jasmine vines belong to the Trachelospermum genus and are native to parts of Asia including China, Japan and Korea. They are evergreen vines that can grow quite vigorously and climb up trellises fences, and other structures. Most types of Asiatic jasmine vine have leathery dark green leaves and fragrant star-shaped white flowers that bloom in spring and summer. Beyond the basic traits, there are some key differences among the varieties that are important to note.
Popular Varieties of Asiatic Jasmine Vines
Here are some of the most popular and commonly grown types of Asiatic jasmine vines:
Confederate Jasmine
Confederate jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) is one of the most widely available and hardy varieties. It grows rapidly and can easily cover fences and arbors with its dense foliage. The leaves are a lustrous dark green and the flowers are highly fragrant. Confederate jasmine thrives in full sun to partial shade. It’s an excellent choice for covering large spaces quickly.
Asian Jasmine
Also known as Ogon Nishiki, Asian jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum ‘Ogon Nishiki’) has striking yellow and green variegated leaves that make it stand out. The foliage provides great color and visual interest. Its growth rate is a bit slower than other jasmine vines. Asian jasmine does best in partial shade. The variegation makes it a popular choice.
Summer Sunset Jasmine
If you want a pop of color, Summer Sunset jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum ‘Summer Sunset’) is a great option. New growth emerges in shades of red, orange, and yellow for a tropical look. As foliage matures it turns green. This variety thrives in full sun. The colorful foliage is ideal for making a bold statement.
Variegated Jasmine
Variegated jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum ‘Variegatum’) has attractive leaves edged in creamy white that can brighten up shady areas. It remains evergreen through the seasons. The variegation provides great contrast against walls and fences. Partial shade is ideal for the best leaf color.
Dragon Lady Jasmine
For a compact, dense form, Dragon Lady jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum ‘Dragon Lady’) is a great compact pick. It has very lush foliage on a smaller, more manicurable plant. Dragon Lady jasmine is ideal when you need a tidy, compact vine for containers or smaller spaces. It grows well in partial shade.
Other Varieties to Consider
Some other less common but interesting varieties of Asiatic jasmine vine include:
- Bronze Beauty – Features reddish-bronze tinted leaves that make it stand out.
- Snow N’ Summer – Has white-edged leaves with creamy variegation. Provides a light, airy look.
- Long Leaf – Has elongated narrow leaves for an elegant, sweeping appearance.
- Snow Rose – Similar to Snow N’ Summer but with pink flowers instead of white.
As you can see, there is quite a diverse range of leaf colors, sizes, and growth habits among Asiatic jasmine vine varieties. Make sure to choose one that fits your specific needs and garden conditions.
Tips for Planting and Caring for Asiatic Jasmine Vines
Once you’ve selected the ideal Asiatic jasmine vine for your landscape, proper planting and care will keep your vine thriving for years to come. Here are some key tips:
- Plant in spring after the last frost. This gives vines time to establish before summer heat.
- Prepare soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Water newly planted vines daily until the roots establish, then weekly during growth.
- Install a trellis, pergola, or other rigid support structure for vines to climb.
- Prune regularly in spring to shape and remove dead growth. Pinching back tips encourages fullness.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer.
- Mulch around the base of vines to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
- Allow vines to fill in the first year before expecting many flowers. Blooms increase over time.
Light
Asiatic jasmine can be grown in full sun and partial shade. In southern or western exposures with hot midday or afternoon sun, it does best in partial shade.
Pruning
Asiatic jasmine is a fast and vigorous grower that needs regular pruning, especially to keep it under control when planted along a sidewalk or patio.
Individual plants can be trimmed with sharp pruners and even sheared, which encourages the plant to develop more branches and grow denser foliage. However, if you are growing Asiatic jasmine for its flowers, delay pruning until after the bloom to avoid removing any flower buds. In the spring, before the bloom, only remove diseased or dead branches.
If you are growing Asiatic jasmine as a ground over or as a turf grass alternative, mow it once a year at maximum mower setting, preferably 3 to 4 inches. Freshly sharpened mower blades are essential, otherwise you end up with unattractive jagged vine ends.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/4-1a6276e19a334ca4a550d8d22e144bd1.jpg)
MasaoTaira / Getty s
Asian jasmine is a tough, vigorous ground cover
FAQ
What is the difference between jasmine and Asiatic jasmine?
What is the difference between vinca and Asiatic jasmine?
How do I identify Asiatic jasmine?
How long does it take for Asiatic jasmine to spread?
What is Asiatic jasmine?
Asiatic jasmine ( Trachelospermum asiaticum) with its fragrant pale yellow flowers is one of them. Unlike jasmine shrubs and vines, Asiatic jasmine is a sprawling ground cover—it does not climb much, unlike its close cousin, star jasmine ( Trachelospermum jasminoides).
What does Asiatic jasmine look like?
Plant breeders have developed several varieties of Asiatic jasmine: Trachelospermum asiaticum ‘HOSNS’ ‘Snow-N-Summer’ has leaves that start out pink, then gradually turn white and eventually become variegated white and emerald green as they mature. It has fragrant white flowers in the summer.
Can Asiatic jasmine grow in shade?
Asiatic jasmine can be grown in full sun and partial shade. In southern or western exposures with hot midday or afternoon sun, it does best in partial shade. This plant is not finicky about soil conditions and can grow in a wide range of soils as long as there is good drainage.
Is Jasmine a shrub or a vine?
Downy Jasmine Downy jasmine (Jasminum pubescens) is a freely spreading shrub with downy cordate leaves and clusters of intensely sweet scented white star-like flowers at tips and along the stems. It is an evergreen, branching vine that can be trained as a shrub, or as a spreading, vine-like shrub.