This is Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens). This native, evergreen vine is just starting to bloom. In a few more weeks, as it reaches full bloom, it can be seen growing on trees and fences on the side of seemingly every road in the state. The flowers have a sweet scent and frequently attract foraging native bees and butterflies, though all parts of the plant are poisonous to humans if ingested. Carolina jessamine is the official state flower of South Carolina. Read more about Carolina jessamine here.
Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens).
Mallory Maher, ©2024, Clemson Extension
