Jasmine Sambac Emperor

• Native to Southeast Asia, Jasmine Sambac is known as the national flower of the Philippines and Indonesia. The Emperor variety is prized for its exceptionally large, double flowers.
• Features glossy, dark green oval leaves and produces clusters of pristine white, rose-like double flowers. The blooms open in the evening and release their strongest fragrance at night.
• Can grow 2-3 metres tall as a climbing vine or be pruned to maintain as a compact shrub. Benefits from support structure when grown as a climber.
• Flowers are traditionally used to make jasmine tea and in perfume production. The Emperor variety produces some of the most intensely fragrant blooms of all jasmine types.

• Water when soil surface feels dry, typically every 2-3 days in summer and weekly in winter. Always check soil moisture before watering to prevent overwatering.
• Position in bright, filtered light indoors or morning sun outdoors with protection from harsh afternoon sun. 4-6 hours of gentle sunlight promotes best flowering.
• Plant in well-draining potting mix enriched with compost or aged manure. Ensure containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• Feed fortnightly with liquid fertiliser during spring and summer growing season. Reduce to monthly feeding in autumn and cease in winter.
• Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch growing tips regularly to promote branching and more flower buds.
• Maintain humidity by misting leaves in morning or placing on pebble trays filled with water. Good air circulation prevents fungal issues.
• In cooler regions, bring potted plants indoors when temperatures drop below 10°C. Mulch garden plants to protect roots from frost.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves and reduce flowering.
• Water when top inch of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Maintain humidity around 50-60% by misting regularly or using a humidity tray. Low humidity reduces flower production and fragrance intensity.
• Keep temperatures between 18-26°C year-round for optimal growth and flowering. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
• Feed monthly with liquid fertiliser during growing season (spring to autumn). Reduce feeding in winter to encourage natural dormancy period.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth and flower buds - spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Check regularly during spring and summer growth periods.
• Scale insects appear as small brown bumps on stems - scrape off gently and apply horticultural oil. Persistent infestations may require systemic insecticide.
• Root rot from overwatering causes yellowing leaves and wilting - ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil if severe.
• Spider mites in hot, dry conditions cause stippled leaves - increase humidity and spray with water regularly. Use miticide if infestation persists.