Italian Jasmine

Italian Jasmine (Jasminum humile), also known as Italian jasmine or yellow jasmine, is a species of jasmine native to Italy and other parts of southern Europe. It is a woody shrub valued for its highly fragrant yellow flowers and attractive evergreen foliage. Here are some key features and characteristics of Italian Jasmine:

Fragrant Flowers: Italian Jasmine produces small, bright yellow flowers with a sweet, intense fragrance. The flowers typically bloom in late spring to early summer and continue sporadically throughout the growing season, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Evergreen Foliage: The shrub is adorned with glossy, dark green leaves that remain green throughout the year, providing year-round interest in the garden. The foliage is lance-shaped and arranged in opposite pairs along the stems.

Growth Habit: Italian Jasmine has a bushy, spreading growth habit and can reach heights of up to 6 to 10 feet (about 1.8 to 3 meters) with a similar spread. It can be grown as a shrub or trained to climb walls, fences, or trellises using supports.

Cold Tolerance: Italian Jasmine is moderately cold-tolerant but may require protection or winter care in colder climates. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11 and prefers mild, Mediterranean-like climates.

Versatile Use: Italian Jasmine is commonly used in landscapes as an ornamental shrub or vine, valued for its fragrant flowers and evergreen foliage. It can be planted as a specimen plant, used as a hedge or screen, or grown along fences or walls for privacy or decoration.

Growing Conditions: Italian Jasmine prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It thrives in warm, sunny locations and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.

Pruning: Pruning is generally minimal for Italian Jasmine but can be done to control its size and shape, promote bushiness, or remove dead or damaged growth. Pruning is best done after flowering to avoid cutting off next season’s flower buds.

Propagation: Italian Jasmine can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Cuttings root readily in moist, well-draining soil or a rooting medium and can be transplanted once established.