What Is a Jasmine Vine?

Jasmine vine is a fragrant perennial from the Oleaceae family, genus Jasminum. The Jasminum genus is a hardy subtropical to tropical plant that includes both vining varieties and shrubs. The vine displays green to blue-green deciduous or evergreen foliage, and blooms that vary in color depending on the species. There are more than 200 varieties available throughout the world, with wild species spanning parts of Asia and its neighboring regions.

The Confederate, pink, and showy jasmine varieties are a few of the most common types of jasmine vines used to highlight backyard landscapes. The Confederate jasmine, also known as the star jasmine, produces white blooms, while the showy jasmine bares yellow flowers. As the name implies, the pink jasmine displays a pink-toned bloom. Another fragrant evergreen vine, the Carolina jasmine, also yields yellow blooms.

The Confederate jasmine is predominantly displayed in the southeast region of the United States; however, it is not native to the US nor is it a true jasmine species. Producing white jasmine-like blooms, the Confederate jasmine is a China native that emits a fragrant odor that mimics that of true jasmine plants. Native to the United States, the Carolina jasmine is another non-jasmine species baring the jasmine name. Sometimes referred to as false jasmine, Carolina jasmine produces toxic yellow blooms that resemble those of true jasmine plants.

Grown indoors, jasmine vine thrives well as a container houseplant. Jasmine vine grown outside is most commonly used as ground cover, or as climbing foliage for trellises and fences. Most species bloom from spring to summer; however, there are a few types of jasmine vines that flower during the colder months, such as the J. nudiflorum, or winter jasmine. In non-native regions, some jasmine varieties have become an invasive species, such as the Gold Coast jasmine found growing in areas of the southeast United States.

The overall spread of the jasmine vine will vary from as little as 3 feet (1 meter) to approximately 15 feet (5 meters). The small leaves average 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length with blooms that are approximately the same size in width. A majority of the species displays glossy leaflets and blooms that feature five to six lobes. The blooms emit a sweet and oftentimes strong scent, although there are several variations that resemble a true jasmine, but do not produce any fragrance.

Jasmine vine can be found in a variety of areas throughout the world and is used for many different purposes. In most regions of North America, jasmine vines are grown for their hardiness and fragrant odor. In some regions, primarily Asia, the jasmine vine and shrub have symbolic meanings. In Indonesia, jasmine represents purity and is a traditional flower used in wedding ceremonies. The J. officinale variety, commonly known as poet’s jasmine, is the national flower of Pakistan and widely used in essential oils.

Caring for a jasmine vine takes minimal time and effort. This fast-growing plant requires adequate sunlight, water, and periodic pruning. Trimming jasmine vines when the plant is dormant will promote healthy growth during the blooming season. Regular feedings with a nutrient-rich fertilizer will also ensure healthy blooms and foliage.