Jasminum officinale

Common name: Common Jasmine / Summer Jasmine

Description: Jasminum officinale — common jasmine — is one of the most beloved and evocative climbing plants in the British garden, treasured above all for its intoxicatingly sweet fragrance. From June through to September, the twining stems are covered in clusters of small, pure white star-shaped flowers whose scent carries powerfully on warm summer evenings, making it an incomparable choice for growing near seating areas, over archways, and around doorways. The delicate, pinnate foliage is attractive throughout the growing season, and the plant grows vigorously once established, quickly clothing walls, pergolas, and trellis with lush green cover.

Other benefits: exceptional fragrance — one of the most powerfully scented garden climbers; covers structures quickly; long flowering season; ideal near patios, seating areas, and entrances

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, moths, and other pollinating insects; particularly attractive to moths in the evening when the fragrance intensifies

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 6–8m x 3–4m

Position: full sun to partial shade; best fragrance and flowering in a sunny, sheltered position; south- or west-facing walls ideal

Soil pH: slightly acid to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0–7.5); fertile, well-drained soil preferred

Moisture: moderate watering required, particularly in the first season; once established, relatively drought tolerant; benefits from mulching around the base

Winter hardiness: hardy to approximately -15°C; may lose leaves in a cold winter but regrows reliably from established stems in spring