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Description
Gelsemium Sempervirens, commonly known as Carolina jasmine, is a species of flowering plant native to the southeastern United States. It is a twining vine that can reach heights of up to 20 feet and has fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The plant is highly toxic and should be handled with care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gelsemiaceae |
| Genus | Gelsemium |
Appearance
The Carolina jasmine has glossy, evergreen leaves that are lance-shaped and grow up to 3 inches in length. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can be up to 2 inches in diameter. They have a sweet fragrance and are typically yellow, although some varieties may have a more orangish tint. The plant has a twining habit and can climb up trellises, fences, and other structures.
Care Guide
The Carolina jasmine is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can be propagated by seed or by cuttings. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Carolina jasmine prefers full to partial sun.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Carolina jasmine is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
The Carolina jasmine is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in wooded areas, along stream banks, and in other moist, shaded habitats. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, where it is often trained to climb up trellises, fences, and other structures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Carolina jasmine toxic to humans?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant contain the toxic compound gelsemine, which can cause a range of symptoms including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and respiratory failure.
Q: Can Carolina jasmine be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Carolina jasmine indoors, it requires bright, indirect light and high humidity, which can be difficult to provide in most indoor environments.
Q: How often should I prune my Carolina jasmine?
A: Prune the plant as needed to control its size and shape. It can be pruned in the fall or winter, after flowering has finished.
Q: Can Carolina jasmine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Carolina jasmine can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization to thrive.
Related Plants
- Gelsemium elegans
- Gelsemium rankinii
- Gelsemium sempervirens ‘Margarita’
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Gelsemium Sempervirens
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Gelsemium Sempervirens
- North Carolina State University: Gelsemium Sempervirens
