Jasminum x stephanense

Jasminum x stephanense, sometimes called the Stephan jasmine or pink jasmine, is an unusual variety, a natural hybrid between the common jasmine, which has passed on its fragrance, and the Jasminum beesianum, from which it inherited its pink colour and resistance. This vigorous climbing shrub will seduce with the generosity of its flowering, which is renewed throughout the summer, as well as its willingness to grow in fairly dry soils in summer. You can train it on a trellis, a fence, or even against the trunk of a small tree. It can also be grown in a large pot.

The pink jasmine belongs to the Oleaceae family. From its stump, the plant produces very long square-sectioned green stems, which can measure up to 5m (16 ft 5 in) in length under optimal conditions. These stems which are quite flexible when young, are unable to cling to a support, they simply weave between neighbouring branches. The overall habit can be a bit disorderly. The foliage is deciduous in normal climates and evergreen when winters are mild. It is composed of small varied leaves, which can be divided into 3 to 9 lanceolate leaflets. They are light green and the young shoots are sometimes variegated with cream. Flowering begins in June and can be renewed in successive waves until early September if the soil remains moist. The flowers are small, tubular and star-shaped, 2cm (0.8 in) long, with a fresh pink colour and a slight fragrance, appearing at the axils of the leaves. The reverse side of the flowers and the flower buds are a deeper shade of pink. The crown of the mature Jasmin stephanense can withstand short frosts of around -12°C (10.4°F), if well sheltered under mulch. When the vegetation freezes, the plant regrows from the crown in spring, but its flowering may be slightly delayed.

Jasminum x stephanense climbs over bushes, trellises, arches, pergolas, staircase railings, or balconies. You can also plant it in a container on a terrace to fully enjoy its fragrant exuberance. Allow some space for this vigorous plant. One of the best uses is to plant it in an evergreen hedge: in winter, its bare branches will blend into the vegetation, while in summer, delicate garlands of light foliage and small pink stars will elegantly dress it. You can associate it with a montana clematis or a pink or white climbing rose, for example.