Carolina Jessamine

Gelsemium sempervirens (gel-SEM-ee-um sem-per-VEE-renz)

Family: Loganiaceae Native Vine (vertical)

Carolina jessamine is a member of the yellow-jessamine family (Gelsemiaceae). It is a vine native to the southern United States, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. The genus name comes from the Italian word for jasmine, gelsomino , and the species epithet is Latin for “always green.” It was named the state flower of South Carolina in 1924. Carolina jessamine is best grown in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun. Although it will tolerate light shade, best flowering and growth occur in sun. It tolerates wind and is moderately tolerant of salt, wet soil or short periods of drought. Carolina jessamine has a modest growth rate until well-established. It may grow from 12 to 20 feet as a twining vine trained to an arbor or trellis after three to four growing seasons. If unsupported, it creates a bushy ground cover. Pruning, which is best done soon after it finishes flowering, is generally only needed for shape and training to its support. Admired for its sweetly scented, canary-yellow flowers and glossy evergreen foliage, this vine really puts on a show from February to May, depending on the weather. The foliage generally bronzes in winter. Carolina jessamine can be found in the wild in wooded areas and thickets growing up tree trunks. It can become weedy in disturbed areas and along roadsides. In cultivation, it is well-suited for growing in vertical spaces like trellises, arbors, fences, planters, porch columns, and screens. Use it in pollinator, native, woodland, cottage or rain gardens. Fire Risk: This plant has a high flammability rating and should not be planted within the defensible space of your home. Select plants with a low flammability rating for the sites nearest your home. Quick ID Hints: Thin, wiry, evergreen vine that climbs by twining Leaves are shiny green, opposite and lanceolate Persistent fruit is a flattened, dehiscent capsule Flowers are golden yellow, funnelform, axillary Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant pests or diseases. Toxic pollen from this plant is detrimental to honeybee colonies. This plant is not suitable for beekeepers.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 72 attributes.