A Top Climber

BOTANICAL NAME:  Gelsemium sempervirens
COMMON NAME:  Carolina Jessamine or Jasmine

DESCRIPTION:  An evergreen twining climber with slender stems and narrow green leaves that darken in colour during winter.  It bears clusters of sweetly scented yellow trumpet flowers during late winter and spring.  The stems can spread 5m to 6m, affording good coverage with dense foliage.

CULTURAL INFORMATION:  Plant in the sun or semi-shade.  They grow in most well-drained soils.  Add compost and root-stimulating fertiliser, such as superphosphate or bone meal (organic) to the planting hole.  Fertilise every 2 to 3 months.  Prune back after flowering if need be.  The initial growth stems may need to be tied to supports to assist the climber in getting established.  Frost hardy.

GARDEN USES:  Use for climbing on fences, against garden walls or buildings.  They are suitable for pergolas and decorative arches.  The strong fragrance permeates the air for weeks on end.  

NB:  All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.