Winter jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum) is a seldom-used shrub/groundcover/vine that has some wonderful attributes. It is deer and pest resistant. It also tolerates our summer heat and is drought tolerant once established.
Winter jasmine begins to bloom in late January to February.
Paul Thompson, ©2022, Clemson Extension
Winter jasmine blooms 3 to 4 weeks earlier than forsythia.
Paul Thompson, ©2022, Clemson Extension
Left to its own devices, it is a sprawling, mounding shrub that reaches 3 to 4 feet tall and up to 7 feet wide. The arching branches will root when they contact the ground making it an excellent plant for slope stabilization.
This is a neglected but beautiful planting of winter jasmine.
Paul Thompson, ©2022, Clemson Extension
Winter jasmine has a sprawling, mounded habit.
Paul Thompson, ©2022, Clemson Extension
If provided a strong trellis, this plant can also make a wonderful vine, or it can be planted at the top of a retaining wall and allowed to cascade over.
The small deciduous leaves are parted into three leaflets. In the winter, the green stems give you some color. Flower buds open in late January to February into bright yellow flowers covering the stems. It is a good nectar source for honeybees on warm winter days.
The small deciduous leaves are parted into three leaflets.
Paul Thompson, ©2022, Clemson Extension
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to light shade. If pruning is needed or desired, prune in the spring after the floral display has ended.
For more information on this and other jasmine species, see HGIC 1106, Jasmine.
