‘Yellow Jessamine’
Gelsemium sempervirens, commonly known as Yellow Jessamine or Carolina Jasmine, is an evergreen climber prized for its profusion of bright yellow, fragrant flowers and attractive glossy foliage. A fast-growing vine, it’s perfect for sunny positions where you want a long-flowering, fragrant screen or feature plant.
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to light shade is ideal.
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
Water: Regular watering while establishing; drought tolerant once mature.
Climate: Prefers temperate to subtropical conditions.
Overview
- Botanical name: Gelsemium sempervirens
- Common names: Yellow Jessamine, Carolina Jasmine, Evening Trumpetflower, Woodbine
- Plant type: Evergreen climbing vine
- Flower colour: Bright yellow, tubular or trumpet-shaped
- Foliage: Glossy, lanceolate green leaves
- Fragrance: Sweetly scented flowers
Flowering & Care
In cooler climates, Yellow Jessamine bursts into colour in spring. In warmer areas it can bloom almost year-round, spreading a delightful fragrance that enhances outdoor living spaces.
- Pruning: Light pruning after flowering keeps shape and encourages bushier growth.
Propagation
Easily propagated from cuttings taken in spring. Cuttings are best dipped in hormone rooting powder and then grown on in a open propagating mix. Keep the cuttings moist by mist spraying until you see good signs of new growth.
Uses in the Garden
This charming climber thrives when trained up fences, trellises, pergolas or through shrubs — and it’s equally happy in containers in smaller spaces.
Yellow Jessamine makes a wonderful:
- Screening plant on fences or arbors
- Climber over walls and structures
- Container feature on patios or balconies
- Low-maintenance option for sunny spots
Summary – Quick Facts
- Height Up to ~4m climber
- Light Full sun to light shade
- Soil Well-drained, rich
- Flowers Bright yellow, fragrant
- Growth Fast
- Frost Tolerates light frosts
- Easy care Yes
- Toxicity All parts poisonous
- Also related species to explore include Gelsemium rankinii (Swamp Jessamine) and other Gelsemium varieties
Although the growth rate it is reasonably fast, it does not seem to be one of those climbers that smothers other plants. It tolerates frosts, and if you are lucky you may find the double flowering form for sale.
Important Notes
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and the sap may irritate sensitive skin. Handle with care, especially around children and pets.
Other species include:
- G. elegans,
- G. flora plena is a double flowering variety.
- G. lucidum,
- Gelsemium rankinii is the Swamp Jessamine
- G. nitidum,
- G. sempervirens ‘Margarita’ (Margarita Hardy Carolina Jessamine),
- G. sempervirens ‘Pride of Augusta’ (Carolina Yellow Jasmine)
- G. sumatranum.
Available for sale from the following nurseries
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
Wholesale Growers