Introduction to Jasminum azoricum: The Azores jasmine
Jasminum azoricum, Popularly known as jasmine from the azores o Azorean jasmine, is a climbing plant of exotic origin that is distinguished by the following characteristics:
- Belongs to the family Oleaceae, shared with other jasmines and olive trees.
- It comes from the Azores archipelago and, according to some references, also from the Canary Islands.
- In this perennial climbing shrub capable of reaching several meters in height with the help of supports.
This jasmine stands out for its bright green, evergreen foliage, formed by leaves composed of three leaflets, and by its white flowers with an intense aroma, gathered in terminal clusters. It is especially appreciated in gardens, terraces, and balconies for its ornamental value and the fragrance it releases during its prolonged flowering period.
Botanical characteristics of Azores jasmine
Jasminum azoricum It has qualities that make it very attractive for both gardening experts and those who are new to plant care:
- Height and build: You can easily reach 5 or 6 meters if you have adequate space and support.
- Sheets: Dark green, shiny, persistent and composed of three oval leaflets, about 3 to 5 cm long.
- Flowers: They are usually white, fragrant and arranged in clustersEach flower measures between 1,5 and 2 cm and has a very decorative star shape.
- Flowering: In warm climates, it can last almost all year round, although it usually blooms from spring to autumn.
- Fruit: It does not usually produce appreciable fruits in ornamental cultivation.
- Adaptability: It adapts well both in pots and in direct soil, allowing it to be grown in gardens and terraces.
Location and optimal sun exposure
To ensure a vigorous growth and abundant flowering, it is essential to take care of the location:
- Light: Azores jasmine requires lots of light. The ideal is to place it at full sun; however, tolerates the semi-shadow as long as it receives several hours of direct sunlight a day.
- Protection: In areas exposed to cold wind or frost, protect the plant in winter, preferably next to a warm wall or in a sheltered area.
- Indoor or outdoor: Although it is an outdoor plant, it can be grown in very bright interiors, although its development may be more limited.
Climate and resistance to extreme temperatures
Jasminum azoricum adapts well to climates temperate and warm, although it can withstand short periods of cold if temperatures do not drop too much.
- Es moderately cold-hardy: can tolerate gentle descents, but is sensitive to intense frost (below -5ºC damage to leaves and stems is already observed).
- In regions with harsh winters, it is advisable to protect it, cover the base with mulch, or move it to a sheltered location if it is in a pot.
- Ideal atmosphere: Prefer humid but well-ventilated environments.
Recommended substrate and soil
For a healthy and blooming Azorean jasmine, the choice of substrate is a key factor:
- Fertile and deep substrate with good drainage. An ideal mix includes black soil, river dregs or organic matter.
- It tolerates slightly acidic and nutrient-rich soils, but always avoiding compact clay soils that retain excessive water.
- It can tolerate a certain degree of salinity, although in its natural habitat it develops better in fresh and fertile soil.
Watering Jasminum azoricum
El irrigation It is essential to maintain the vigor and flowering of Azorean jasmine, but it is important to do so in a balanced way:
- No puddles: It is preferable that the substrate remains damp but not waterloggedExcess water causes root deterioration and fungal diseases.
- Frequency:
- En spring and summer, water every 3-4 days, ensuring a constant supply of moisture.
- En autumn and winter, reduce the frequency of watering to once a week or even less, depending on the ambient humidity.
- Avoid wetting leaves and flowers: Do not water directly onto the petals; excessive water on the flowers can burn them or cause fungus to grow.
Fertilization and manures
To support growth and spectacular flowering, jasmine should be fertilized periodically:
- uses a balanced liquid fertilizer or granulated every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer.
- During the spring, you can contribute nitrogen-rich fertilizer at the beginning of the season and then a balanced one with phosphorus and potassium to encourage flowering.
- Avoid overfertilizing. Too much fertilizer can cause excessive leaf growth, which can impair flowering.
Pruning and growth control
Regular pruning is essential To maintain the size, shape and health of the Azores jasmine:
- Light pruning after flowering: Trim long or straggly shoots to encourage branching and create a denser, tidier clump.
- Remove dry, damaged or diseased branches to prevent pests and diseases.
- Pruning also allows you to control the size of the plant, which can grow quite large if given enough space and support.
- In autumn, after flowering, you can perform more intensive maintenance pruning if necessary.
Supports, tutors and guidance advice
Azorean jasmine does not climb by itself naturally. Their long, flexible stems need support to grow vertically:
- Use stakes, trellises, fences, pergolas, or walls to guide and support branches according to the structure of the chosen location.
- Tie them delicately with raffia or soft rope to avoid damaging the stems.
- Renew and adjust the ties according to the plant's growth, avoiding tightness that could suffocate the stem.
Multiplication and propagation of Azores jasmine
Jasminum azoricum is easy to propagate, making it an ideal plant to expand your garden.
- Cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings with leaves (about 15 cm long) during late summer or spring. For techniques, visit our guide on How to propagate jasmine by cuttings.
- Plant the cuttings in moist substrate and keep them in a warm, protected environment until they root.
- Layers and suckers: They are also valid methods for reproducing new specimens from adult plants.
Problems and main pests
Azores jasmine is hardy, although it can be affected by some pests and diseases:
- Mealybugs: They are the most common pest; they are controlled with systemic insecticides or organic, and checking the underside of the leaves.
- Aphids and fungi: They rarely attack, but prevention is the best tool. Maintaining good ventilation and avoiding flooding is key.
- Frost damage: If temperatures drop too low, shoots and leaves may burn. In this case, remove the damage by pruning and protect the plant.
Compatibility with pets
In general, the Azores jasmine is safe for petsHowever, consuming large quantities can be toxic to dogs and cats. This is very rare, but it's important to ensure they don't chew the plant regularly.
Benefits and ornamental uses
El jasmine from the azores It is used mainly for its aesthetic and aromatic value:
- Allows decorate walls, pergolas, lattices and balconies with bright green foliage and flowers that provide an intense and very pleasant aroma to gardens and patios.
- It is highly valued in urban gardening thanks to its hardiness and resistance in favorable conditions.
- Its flowers can also be used in floral arrangements for their aroma and beauty.
Short guide to essential care
- Location: Full sun or semi-shade with plenty of sunlight hours.
- Ground: Fertile, deep, well-drained and preferably rich in organic matter.
- Irrigation: Moderate, keeping the substrate moist without flooding.
- Pruning: Light and regular to maintain shape and stimulate flowering.
- Support: Use tutors or trellises to guide its growth.
- Fertilization: Balanced, especially in spring and summer.
- Multiplication: Simple by cuttings, layers or suckers.
Frequently asked questions about Azores jasmine
- Can it be grown in a pot? Yes, but it will need a large container, good substrate and a support to develop properly.
- Does it bloom all year round? In warm climates, it can bloom most of the year; in temperate climates, from spring to autumn.
- Is it drought resistant? It prefers regular moisture, but once established, it can tolerate short periods of drought.
- Does it need a lot of care? It is easy to maintain if provided with good light, adequate watering, and protection from severe frost.
El Jasminum azoricum It's a gem among ornamental plants thanks to its ability to fill spaces, impart an unmistakable fragrance, and transform any corner into an exotic, vibrant space. With basic attention to its light, water, and structural support needs, this plant can accompany you for years and become the centerpiece of your garden, terrace, or balcony.
