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© Lisa Bennett, some rights reserved (CC-BY) · iNaturalist
Overview
Jasminum polyanthum is pink jasmine, a twining vine climbing 36–96 inches (90–240 cm). Cascading clusters of small white star-shaped flowers open from pink buds in late winter to spring — the species name 'polyanthum' means 'many-flowered.' The fragrance is strong, sweet, and pervasive; a single blooming plant scents an entire room. Flower buds initiate only after a cool period: 4–6 weeks of nighttime temperatures at 40–50°F (4–10°C) in autumn. Without this cool exposure, the vine grows vegetatively but does not set buds. An unheated porch, cool garage, or outdoor placement in fall satisfies this requirement. Prune immediately after flowering — flowers form on the previous year's growth, so late pruning removes developing buds for the following season. The transition from pink buds to white open flowers means both colors are visible simultaneously during peak bloom. Non-toxic to cats and dogs. Native to China. Fast-growing; can become unruly without regular pruning after bloom. Indoor humidity above 40% prevents bud desiccation before opening.
Native Range
Jasminum polyanthum is native to China (Yunnan).Suggested Uses
Grown on a small trellis, hoop support, or in a hanging basket in containers of 2–3 gallons (8–12 liters). Requires access to cool autumn temperatures (40–50°F / 4–10°C) for bud initiation — suited to homes with an unheated porch or cool garage.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 8'
Width/Spread1'6" - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Late winter to spring, lasting 4–6 weeks. Bud initiation requires 4–6 weeks of cool nights at 40–50°F (4–10°C). Flowers open from pink buds to white over several days.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White (opening from PINK buds), small, star-shaped, in cascading clusters — intensely FRAGRANT (one of the most powerful floral scents)Foliage Description
Dark green, pinnate (compound) with 5-7 small leafletsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Bright indirect to direct light. Cool autumn period (40–50°F / 4–10°C for 4–6 weeks) required for flower bud initiation. Prune immediately after flowering. Keep soil evenly moist during growth. Non-toxic to pets. Fast-growing — prune to control size.Pruning
Prune immediately after flowering finishes. Flowers form on previous year's growth — pruning later in the season removes developing buds. Cut back by up to one-half to control size.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
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spring
Maintenance Level
moderateContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons