Jasmine Clotted Cream Plants

Features and Uses

• Jasmine clotted cream plants reach lengths of more than 20 feet at maturity and may spread up to 10 feet in diameter. They have deep green, deciduous foliage and fragrant, cream-colored blooms that are slightly larger than those of common white jasmine. The vines can be trained to climb a trellis or other structure, and their rapid growth makes them useful for hiding eyesores in the landscape. They can also be grown as a hedge if pruned frequently to maintain an attractive form. The plants also do well in a container as long as they are provided with plentiful moisture.

Growing Location and Planting

• A growing location that receives exposure to full or partial sunlight is necessary for the rapid and healthy growth of jasmine clotted cream plants. Choose a spot protected from harsh winds to reduce moisture loss and minimize broken growth. The plants do well in practically any well-drained soil. Those planted in full sunlight tend to have the strongest fragrance, though they may require more frequent watering.

Watering and Fertilizer

• Regular watering is a necessity during the first growing season after planting and for container-grown jasmine clotted cream plants. Once established, vines grown in the landscape require only supplemental moisture during very dry conditions. Train the vines to the chosen climbing structures by attaching them loosely with garden twine. Feed with balanced fertilizer once each spring if the leaves of the vine become tinged with yellow.

Pruning

• Pruning is best done after the blooms fade in fall so that the next blooming cycle isn't interrupted. Cut the oldest stems back to soil level and eliminate those that are rubbing against one another. This is also the time to prune to the desired size and shape. Keep in mind that flowering may be reduced during the next growing season if the size of the vine is reduced significantly. Be sure to use very sharp pruners and avoid making uneven cuts.