Star Jasmine : Fragrance, Care & Climbing Beauty
Why Grow Star Jasmine?
- Fragrant flowers: Fills the air with a rich, romantic scent, especially in the evenings.
- Climbing habit: Perfect for walls, pergolas, balconies, and garden arches.
- Fast-growing and evergreen: Provides year-round coverage and privacy.
- Low maintenance: Drought-tolerant and adaptable once established.
Cultural & Symbolic Significance
- Asia: Jasmine is symbolic of purity, love, and sensuality in many cultures, including India, China, and Indonesia.
- Weddings: Commonly used in bridal decorations and garlands for its beauty and scent.
- Aromatherapy: Star Jasmine’s aroma is calming and used to reduce stress and promote restful sleep.
- Spiritual spaces: Used in prayer gardens or meditation corners due to its serene fragrance.
Ideal Growing Conditions in Kenya
- Light: Full sun to partial shade. Blooms best with 5–6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Soil: Well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content.
- Watering: Water deeply once or twice a week during dry spells.
- Climate: Thrives in Nairobi, Limuru, Kajiado, and coastal areas with moderate to warm temperatures (15°C–30°C).
How to Plant Star Jasmine
- Choose a sunny or partially shaded location near a support structure (trellis or fence).
- Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and enrich with compost.
- Plant at the same depth as the nursery pot and water thoroughly.
- Install a bamboo cane or wire if no nearby support is available initially.
Star Jasmine Care Tips
- Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape or encourage denser growth.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 3–4 months during growing season.
- Training: Gently tie young vines to your trellis or pergola until they attach naturally.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests & Common Issues
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects cluster on new shoots. Remove with neem spray or water blast.
- Scale insects: Appear as bumps on stems. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf drop: May occur due to overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure proper soil aeration.
Flowering Season
In Kenya, Star Jasmine blooms primarily from late September through March. Its delicate white flowers open in the evening and are most fragrant at night. With good care, it may flower multiple times a year.
Is Star Jasmine Safe for Pets?
✅ Yes! Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is non-toxic to pets like cats and dogs. It’s safe to plant near your veranda, balcony, or shared garden spaces.
Can Star Jasmine Grow in Pots?
Absolutely. Use a 40L+ container with good drainage. Add a trellis or wire structure and place in a bright location. Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry. Fertilize every 2 months during growing season for lush growth.
Where to Buy Star Jasmine in Kenya
Planters.co.ke offers healthy, climbing Star Jasmine plants grown in nursery bags or elegant pots—perfect for patios, fences, and garden walls. Nationwide delivery and planting guidance available.
Final Thoughts
With its sweet scent, evergreen foliage, and graceful climbing form, Star Jasmine is one of the most romantic plants you can add to your home or garden in Kenya. Easy to care for and pet-safe, it’s a favorite among seasoned plant lovers and beginners alike. Let your walls bloom with fragrance and elegance.
Planters.co.ke is your trusted source for plants, pots, and all things green in Kenya. From starter herbs to exotic indoor plants, we help you grow beautiful spaces—naturally.