Carolina Jessamine
Gelsemium sempervirens
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Vine
Height
180 inches
Width
54 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Southeastern U.S.
Toxicity
All parts are highly toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Gelsemium sempervirens, commonly known as Carolina Jessamine, is a vigorous, twining evergreen vine with glossy, dark green leaves. It produces clusters of fragrant, trumpet-shaped, bright yellow flowers in late winter to early spring. Valued for its highly fragrant, cheerful yellow flowers that provide early season color. All parts of this plant are highly poisonous if ingested. It is the state flower of South Carolina.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds in moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide support for climbing growth.
- Prune after flowering to shape the vine.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture.
- Monitor for pests and diseases monthly.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and partial shade for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches ✂️
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize late in the season
- Keep away from pets due to toxicity
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Carolina Jessamine questions
What zones can Carolina Jessamine grow in?
Carolina Jessamine is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Carolina Jessamine deer resistant?
Yes — Carolina Jessamine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Carolina Jessamine bloom?
Carolina Jessamine typically blooms in late winter to early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Carolina Jessamine need full sun?
Carolina Jessamine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Carolina Jessamine drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Carolina Jessamine handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Carolina Jessamine with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
