I am a big fan of vines in the right space. They serve an excellent purpose in the landscape as there is a lot to be said for a vertical plant that can provide color and fragrance while hiding an unsightly fence, wall or view. However, you have to be very careful with the vines you choose as they can also be your enemy in the wrong place.
One of my favorite vines to use in landscape designs and in my own space is the Confederate Jasmine (also called Star Jasmine or trader’s compass). Though most people may think the name “Confederate” refers to the “South, or the Confederate States”, the truth is that is refers to the Malay Confederacy of Southeast Asia where this beautiful plant is a native.
Incredibly fragrant, evergreen and beautiful.
The Confederate Jasmine is in fact not a true jasmine, it is a member of the milkweed family which is obvious if you break off a stem and the milky white substance drips from the cut. (Be careful with the milk because it will stain your clothes with a black mark if you are not cautious when trimming and some people are allergic to the milk.) The family name “jasminoides” refers to its jasmine-like fragrance and oh, how I wish you had smell-o-vision. This vine is so incredibly fragrant while in bloom that it is absolutely intoxicating. The aroma wafts through the entire yard and when the wind blows the fragrance carries though the neighborhood. With its stunning star-shaped white flowers and glossy green leaves, this is a very special vine in the landscape.
Confederate Jasmine has to be trained on a wire or fence. It makes an excellent vine because it is not invasive and does not attach itself to everything around it.
The Confederate Jasmine is hardy in zones 8-11, low water, evergreen, can tolerate sun to mostly shade and grows to about 10-15′. This vine is slow to get going, but after the first year or two it will take off and fill in quickly. Unlike Asian jasmine that will take over everything it comes in contact with, Confederate Jasmine also makes an excellent ground cover because it will stay on top of the ground and go where you encourage it to grow.
This video demonstrates how beautiful this vine truly is and I encourage you to find a special place in your landscape for this fabulously functional addition.
Lisa LaPaso
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