Jasmine is a perennial vine or shrub that’s much-loved around the world for its delicate blossoms and sweet fragrance. Depending on the variety, jasmine may have star-shaped or tubular flowers, and it may be deciduous or evergreen. Some types flower in late winter when not much else is going on in your garden.

Several types of jasmine are popular for home gardens. “There’s some confusion because the common name ‘jasmine’ actually refers to several different families,” says Maxwell Kotelnicki, outdoor horticultural manager at Atlanta Botanical Garden. “But they’re all relatively low-maintenance. The vining types add charm to a fence, trellis or arbor.”

how to grow jasmine

Jasmine also can be grown in containers, but many types become quite large, so it’s not always a long-term solution unless you prune aggressively. They’re typically moderate to fast growers. Some types also can be enjoyed as indoor plants, though your biggest challenge will be providing sufficient light.

Jasmine Plant Basic Info

Common Name: Jasmine

Botanical Name: Jasminum spp, Trachelospermum spp, Gelsemium sempervirensPlant Family: Oleaceae, Loganiaceae

Type of Plant: Semi-woody vine or shrub

Native Origin: Subtropical and tropical regions including Africa, Asia, Pacific Islands

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Mature Size: Vines up to 20 feet tall, shrubs 4 to 12 feet tall and wide, depending on variety

Toxic to pets: Depends on the species

How to Grow Jasmine

Because there’s so much variety in plants that are known by the common name of “jasmine,” be sure to read the plant tag or description so you know what you’re buying and if it will survive winter in your USDA Hardiness Zone (find your zone here). But, in general, all types of jasmine have similar needs:

how to grow jasmine

Light

Most types of jasmine need full sun, which is considered 6 or more hours of direct sunlight. In warmer climates, many types can take part shade. Indoors, they’ll need as much light as you can provide, so a grow light may be necessary.

Soil

Most types of jasmine like well-drained soil that doesn’t stay sopping wet. If you have heavy clay, plant in containers.

Water

Jasmine likes consistent moisture and prefers not to dry out. It is somewhat drought-resistant after it’s established for three to four years.

Fertilizer

If you want to give your jasmine an extra boost, use a balanced, granular slow-release fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) after the new growth starts in spring, and again after it flowers, says Kotelnicki.

Types of Jasmine

These are the most common plants that are typically referred to by the common name of “jasmine”:

Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)

Star Jasmine

USDA Hardiness zones: 7 to 10

Light: Full sun to part shade

Mature size: 12 to 15 feet with support

This vine has delicate, fragrant white flowers in late spring, then off and on in the summer. It likes full sun but does better in filtered sun in warmer climates. Because this blooms on new wood, you can prune this vine in late winter to early spring before it flowers, says Kotelnicki.

Asiatic Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum)

Asiatic Jasmine

USDA Hardiness zones: 7 to 11Light: Full sun to part shadeMature size: 1 to 2 feet tall by 10 to 12 feet wide

This plant is a great “spiller” or vining plant clambering up a trellis in a container. But be aware it will root where the stems touch the ground, which actually makes it a good low-maintenance ground cover, too, says Kotelnicki.

Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum)

Winter Jasmine

USDA Hardiness zones: 6 to 10

Light: Full sun to part shade

Mature size: 4 feet tall and wide

This old-fashioned favorite is more of a shrub form with arching branches. It flowers in mid to late winter, depending on where you live. It’s not fragrant, but it puts on a lovely show because the bright yellow flowers cover the plant before it leafs out, making it an excellent addition to the winter garden, says Kotelnicki.

Carolina Jasmine (Gelsemium sempervirens)

Carolina Jasmine (Yellow Jessamine)

USDA Hardiness zones: 7 to 10

Light: Part sun to part shade

Mature size: 10 to 20 feet tall and wide

This semi-evergreen native vine, also known as yellow jessamine, is a fast grower that tolerates more shade than some other types. It’s covered in beautiful, scented yellow flowers that hummingbirds love. It tends to need more water than other types, says Kotelnicki.

Common Problems with Jasmine

Jasmine can be prone to aphids, which can be blasted off with a garden hose every few days, and mealybugs, which can be handpicked or sprayed with neem oil. Apply it only when the plant isn’t in full sun because the oils can cause the plant to burn, says Kotelnicki. Indoor plants also may be more prone to pest issues.

Is Jasmine Toxic to Pets?

Because so many different plants are called “jasmine,” there’s no straightforward answer. Some jasmine plants, such as star jasmine, are not toxic to pets, according to the ASPCA. Other plants that are sometimes called jasmine, such as yellow jessamine, are highly toxic to pets, according to Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

If you have a nibbler, learn the botanical name of any plant you bring home, and if you suspect your pet has ingested any, even if you’re not sure, call your vet ASAP. It’s better to be safe than sorry.