Trachelospermum jasminoides ‘Variegatum’ is a beautiful and reliable evergreen plant known for its striking, multi-coloured foliage. The glossy, leathery leaves are variegated with splashes and streaks of creamy white and pale green. During the cooler months, the white sections of the foliage often take on beautiful pink and ruby-red hues, providing excellent winter colour. In summer, the plant produces a scattering of small, star-shaped, white flowers that emit the classic, strong, sweet fragrance associated with Star Jasmine. It is a slow to medium-growing, twining vine that is excellent when used as a dense groundcover, for trailing over walls, or trained as a climber on a trellis.
Care Tips for Variegated Star Jasmine
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Position: Prefers a spot in partial shade or bright, filtered light. Too much hot, direct afternoon sun can scorch the variegated (white) parts of the foliage, while a bit of winter cold encourages the best pink colouration.
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Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
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Watering: Water regularly until established. Once mature, it is quite tolerant of dry spells, but looks its best with consistent moisture during warmer periods.
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Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain a dense, tidy shape and to control its spread, especially when used as a groundcover. It is slow enough that aggressive pruning is rarely needed.
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Fertilising: Feed in spring with a slow-release fertiliser to promote healthy growth and flowering.
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Usage: Fantastic as a flowering, fragrant groundcover or planted in pots where the foliage can trail over the edges.
