Plant File

Climber + Ground Cover

Star Jasmine

Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is one of those rare plants that engages more than just the eyes. When in bloom, its small, white, star-shaped flowers release a rich, sweet fragrance that can transform entire gardens, courtyards, and balconies. Paired with glossy evergreen foliage and a versatile growth habit, star jasmine is both beautiful and hardworking.

Star jasmine is most commonly used as a climbing or screening plant. Trained along fences, trellises, pergolas, and walls, it creates dense green coverage that offers privacy while softening structural elements. It can also be grown as a groundcover, where it forms a thick, weed-suppressing carpet or kept in containers for balconies and smaller spaces. Its fragrance makes it especially effective near entryways, outdoor seating areas, and bedroom windows—places where scent can be fully appreciated.

Star jasmine is adaptable but performs best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. It tolerates a range of soil types but dislikes waterlogged roots. Full sun to partial shade. More sun generally means more flowers. Its evergreen nature makes it a reliable year-round feature in suitable climates.

To get the most from star jasmine, train it early. Young vines are easy to guide along supports, and regular pruning helps maintain shape and encourages bushier growth. If used as a groundcover, occasional trimming keeps it dense and tidy. When grown near structures, provide a support system rather than relying on the plant to cling on its ownit twines rather than self-attaches. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and supports healthy root development.

Star Jasmine Trained Along Trellis (Photo-Exotic Nurseries)