Carolina jessamine

Plant Type

Vine

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

12-20 ft. tall

Tolerant of

Deer, Drought, Occasional Flooding, Salt Exposure

Propagation

By seed, By cutting

Plant Propagation Notes

Collect the ripe, brownish capsules in the fall and allow to air dry for a few days before removing the seeds. Store seeds in a sealed, refrigerated container. May also be propagated from hardwood and semi-hardwood cuttings.

Plant Planting Notes

Carolina jessamine will grow best in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil with plenty of sun.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Nectar source for hummingbirds

Leaves

Opposite light green leaves are 1-3 inches long, shiny, lanceolate, and entire.

Flowers

Trumpet-shaped, perfect flowers are radially symmetrical with 5 sepals, 5-lobed funnelform corolla, and 5 stamens.

Fruit

Thin, flattened capsules which are dehiscent appear in the fall.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are toxic to humans and livestock if consumed. The sap can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

USDA Hardiness Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0), Basic (greater than 8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Gelsemium sempervirens can be found in dry to wet thickets, woods, fence rows, or hammocks. In South Carolina, it is often seen scrambling up pine trees along road edges.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Within South Carolina, Carolina jessamine is common in the Coastal Plain, common in the Piedmont, and uncommon in the Mountains. It’s entire range stretches from Virginia, southeastern Tennesee, and Arkansas south to central peninsular Florida and eastern Texas.