Madagascar jasmine, Stephanotis floribundaIs a evergreen climbing vine that conquers by its white, waxy and very aromatic flowersIn its habitat it can reach great heights, while in domestic cultivation it is usually between three and five meters with tutorsIt is a climbing plant that twists around supports, ideal for arches, lattices and circular structures, with a medium growth and an always elegant bearing.
Description and flowering
the leaves are leathery, shiny and dark green, opposite and oval. The flowers appear in axillary clusters, tubular in shape and five star-shaped lobes. Under favorable conditions, flowering is extended from spring and can extend well into autumn, filling the air with a sweet and powerful fragrance, highly appreciated in bright interiors and sheltered terraces.
Although it is called jasmine, it does not belong to the genus Jasminum, until Stephanotis, inside to the family apocynaceaeAs a climber, does not have tendrils, so it is appropriate tie their stems to a stake to guide it and achieve a dense and harmonious framework.
Location, light and temperature
Needs to a lot of light to bloom well. The ideal is a bright semi-shade with several hours of intense light without direct sunlight during the central hours. It tolerates a moment of gentle sunshine at dawn or dusk, avoiding strong sun that burns leaves and prevents flowering.
It loves stable climates. Its comfortable range is mild temperatures, and suffers below 10 ºCIn frost-free regions it can live outdoors year-round in protected locations; in cooler climates, grow it as a houseplant near a bright window, away from air currents and from heat sources that dry out.
Irrigation and humidity
Prefer a slightly moist substrate, without flooding. During flowering, watering should be regular, allowing the surface layer of the substrate to dry slightly between applications. Always avoid water accumulating in the tray to prevent root rot.
The plant is grateful medium-high humidity. Occasionally spray the leaves, never the flowers, or place the pot on a plate with damp pebbles. If the environment is very dry, a humidifier helps keep it looking great. Hydroponics can be helpful for those looking for controlled self-irrigation.
Hard water can cause problems. If yours is hard, use rainwater, demineralized or settled water. Excess lime can cause yellowing and falling flowers.
Substrate and subscriber
Requires a substrate rich, fresh and with excellent drainageA base of peat or coconut fiber enriched with perlite and coarse sand for aeration, more earthworm humus to provide nutrients. It is advisable that the pH be slightly acidic to facilitate the assimilation of iron.
During the growth stage, fertilizer can be every 2 to 4 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer that includes micronutrients. During the rest period, fertilizer is suspended to promote a abundant flowering in the next cycle.
Transplant and tutoring
Because it grows moderately, it doesn't need frequent repotting. Move to a slightly larger container. every 2 or 3 years, when you see roots poking out of the holes. In larger specimens, it is enough to renew the top layer of the substrate once a year.
Install from the beginning a arch or lattice and guide the stems with soft ties. Remember that the plant is climbing and, with support, will form a compact canopy dotted with flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
It blooms mainly on wood from the previous year. Therefore, make a light pruning after flowering to control length and stimulate branching, avoiding severe cuts that eliminate future flower buds. In late winter you can pinch tips to compact, without reducing excessively.
The stems exude latex when cut. Stop the flow by applying cold water on the wound and disinfect the tools. If the specimen has grown excessively, limit the trimming to the longer branches and retains the main structure.
Dormancy, flowering and bud management
To bloom strongly, it is good for a rest in autumn and winter with a cool environment and moderate watering, without fertilizing. When the buds appear, avoid moving the pot: : changes in location may cause bud drop.
Multiplication
Multiply by stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Choose secondary branches and cut pieces of 8 to 10 cm just below a node, with an oblique cut. Remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone and plant in an aerated mix of peat and sand. Keep at about 21 ° C, in bright shade and with constant humidity without flooding. Rooting may take several weeks. It also supports layered of flexible branches.
Pests, diseases and common problems
The most common pests are cochineal (brown and cottony), aphid y MitesRemove mealybugs with cotton and alcohol or wash with neutral soap, rinsing well. In severe infestations, use specific products. The red spider thrives with environmental dryness, so it is advisable to increase humidity and, if necessary, apply acaricide.
Waterlogging produces root rot, so drainage is a priority. Viruses are rare, but they can cause spotting and weakness.
- Yellow sheets: usually indicates lack of light or calcareous water.
- Lower leaves discolored: nutritional deficiency or excess of lime.
- Falling buds: changes of location, thermal stress or irregular watering.
- Dried cocoons: lack of water during periods of high demand.
Madagascar jasmine information sheet
- Common name: Madagascar jasmine, wax jasmine, stephanotis.
- Scientific name: Stephanotis floribunda.
- Family: Apocynaceae.
- Origin: Madagascar.
- Location: Very bright interior; exterior only in frost-free areas.
- Luz: high, without strong sun; allows soft sun during low intensity hours.
- Temperature: temperate; avoid temperatures below 10 ºC.
- Irrigation: moderate and frequent in flowering, without flooding.
- Fertilizer: balanced liquid in growth, without fertilizing at rest.
Uses and curiosities
Flowers are often used in bridal bouquets for its fragrance and purity. The fruit, when it appears, not edible and contains numerous feathery seeds that are dispersed by the wind. Well cared for, this plant provides aroma, elegance and persistent greenery to any space.
With a bright location, measured watering, good drainage and a cool dormant period, Stephanotis will respond with clusters of fragrant flowers and bright foliage that lasts, making it an essential climber for interiors and sheltered terraces.