The Stephanotis (steh-fuh-NO-tuhs) plant is a woody, climbing vine.
Its shiny, leathery, dark leaves grow evergreen, and it can produce fragrant white clusters of flowers throughout the summer.
The name “Stephanotis” is derived from the Greek words Stephanos, which means a crown, and Otis, which means ear.
The term refers to the trumpet-like flowers that burst into a 5-petal crown.
Originating from Madagascar, the first specimen was imported by Dr. Hillabrand to Hawaii in the 1870s.
Stephanotis has been found growing wild in warm regions across the world, but it can also thrive as an indoor plant with proper care and is a popular choice for wedding bouquets.
Some of the common names for Stephanotis include:
- Stephanotis Floribunda
- Madagascar Jasmine
- Floradora
- Bride’s Flower
- Bridal Wreath
- Wax Flower
Quick Facts on Stephanotis
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 65° to 74° degrees Fahrenheit in summer, 60° to 65° degrees Fahrenheit in winter
- Water: Water regularly; mist daily in summer; water less in winter
- Fertilizer: Half-strength liquid fertilizer
- Propagation: Stem cuttings
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, scale insects, yellow leaves, flowers dropping
Stephanotis Care
How Big Does Madagascar Jasmine Grow?
Stephanotis is a climbing vine, growing up to 16′ to 32′ feet long over its lengthy lifespan under the right conditions. Expect 2′ to 3′ feet of growth per year.
The vines may be trained along a trellis or shaped with wire, so you have the freedom to prune Stephanotis to your preferences.
When Does Madagascar Jasmine Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
Stephanotises produce beautiful, creamy white flowers between March and August.
However, a healthy plant can bloom all summer long under suitable conditions.
Stephanotis flowers smell lovely! They have a scent similar to Jasmine, hence the nickname, “Madagascar Jasmine.”
While rare in a typical indoor setting, Stephanotis can produce fruit or seed pods.
Like the American Milkweed, the pods grow 4″ inches long and contain 70 to 100 seeds with silky parachutes that spread via the wind.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Give your plant plenty of light, but make sure it’s indirect. If grown indoors, Stephanotis prefers an east or west-facing window.
It’s best to keep Stephanotis between 65° to 74° degrees Fahrenheit in the summer during flowering.
Once your plant has stopped flowering for the year, maintain a cooler temperature of 60° to 65° degrees Fahrenheit in the winter.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Madagascar Jasmine?
When your Stephanotis is flowering, include half-strength liquid fertilizer with every watering, and take care not to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Moreover, it’s good to mist your Madagascar jasmine daily with lime-free water.
In the winter, reduce water, and skip the fertilizer. Don’t worry if the leaves look a bit wrinkled.
Some mild drying will help it bloom again next season.
What Is The Best Soil For Stephanotis And When Should You Transplant?
A great mix for Stephanotis contains the following:
- 25% percent coarse sand
- 25% percent peat moss
- 50% percent good garden soil
Transplant at most every 2 to 3 years. Be careful not to damage the roots when you repot.
January through March is the ideal time to transplant.
Look for Stephanotis to show up in stores in the spring. Select a plant with at least 2 or 3 full clusters of flowers.
It should be covered with plastic for temperature regulation as it’s transported to its new home.
Does Stephanotis Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
If you’re looking for lower maintenance, allow your Stephanotis to climb freely up a trellis.
Another popular option is to grow Stephanotis along a wire arch, which will require regular trimming.
Gently deadhead or remove the dead, dried-up flower heads as often as needed. This will help to encourage new blooms.
Remember to give your Stephanotis its space while flowering. It shouldn’t be moved or jostled during this time.
How To Propagate Stephanotis Floribunda?
Sometime between January and March, trim 3 side shoots with well-developed leaves and plant them in a new pot.
Place a plastic bag with a couple of ventilation holes over the top, and keep it at a temperature of about 68° degrees Fahrenheit.
Your cuttings should develop new roots in 6 to 8 weeks.
Bride’s Flower Pests And Diseases
Here are some of the common problems that are common to stephanotis plants:
- Mealy bugs: This common pest can be found underneath the leaves or at the leaf base. Treat with insecticide.
- Scale insect: Bumps appearing on the leaves, followed by leaves yellowing and dropping, are signs of scale insect. Wash with insecticidal soap.
- Yellow leaves: Leaves turning yellow may be the result of water that’s too alkaline. Switch to water that’s lime-free.
- Dried-up flower buds: Ensure you’re watering enough so the soil doesn’t dry completely.
It’s also important to ensure your Stephanotis isn’t moved or bumped while flowering.
Is The Bride’s Flower Considered Toxic or Poisonous To People, Kids, Pets?
Stephanotis is non-toxic to dogs, cats, and people. However, the fruit is not edible.
Is The Bride’s Flower Considered Invasive?
While it’s native to Madagascar, it’s not considered an invasive species.
Suggested Stephanotis Floribunda Uses
This lovely vine often brings ornamental charm to garden trellises and indoor pots.
Stephanotis Floribunda is also popular in bridal bouquets, and though not used as commonly, the flowers work well in Hawaiian leis.