Stephanotis - Growing Guide

Madagascar jasmine, Bridal wreath

These are climbing conservatory plants originally from Madagascar and are most definitely frost tender. They therefore need a frost free and heated greenhouse to be grown successfully.

Stephanotis floribunda has thick glossy-green oval leaves and will produce fragrant cymes of three to six waxy white flowers from spring right through to autumn if fed and cared for properly under glass. These are twining plants which need trellis or other supports to grow on of increasing size as the plants develop.

In the greenhouse they require a loam based potting compost in full light but with shading from direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves. The like high humidity levels and frequent watering or misting. Feeding with a liquid fertiliser every month or so during the growing season will improve growth rates and the number of flowers produced. Water more sparingly in winter. 

As with many conservatory and greenhouse plants scale insects, mealy bugs and red spider mite attacks are a risk and vigilance is needed. If a problem arises in the summer the plants can be stood outside to alleviate the problem.

Cuttings can be rooted with bottom heat in a mist bench in the summer.

Stephanotis floribunda

Stephanotis floribunda

Stephanotis floribunda

Stephanotis floribunda

Stephanotis floribunda