Jasmine Jasmines are beloved for their exquisite fragrance and can rapidly transform a sparse yard into a lush jungle. The delicate flowers of Jasmines are in direct contrast to the rampant hardiness of the vines on which they grow. These garden powerhouses thrive in almost any soil and will tolerate a variety of light conditions.

One of the finest is Jasminum Polyanthum, or Pink Jasmine, so called because of its pretty pink buds which open into white stars from February to July. J. Polyanthum appreciates ample water and needs at least partial sun to bloom well. The fragrance is perfect and you will be amazed to see how even an ugly old chain link fence can become an enchanted bower once this vine gets going. The growth is so vigorous, you will probably find it necessary to prune on a yearly basis.

A lesser known, but truly lovely variety is Jasminum Nitidum. It features white pinwheels, larger than the flowers of Pink Jasmine, and is evergreen in warm zones. It does require good, hot weather to reach its blooming potential. It is extremely fragrant and is usually grown as a ground cover or container plant. It can reach a maximum radius of 10' to 20'.

It is odd that the best known Jasmine is in fact not a true Jasmine at all. This is Trachelospurmum Jasminoides, and it is the evergreen one sees engulfing yards and screens everywhere one goes. This plant, also known as Confederate Jasmine, is so vigorous that it will survive almost anywhere and in any light condition, though it prefers at least moderate sun. Low water requirement and virtually disease-free, Trachelospurmum Jasminoides can be grown as a ground cover, a shrub, or a huge vine. Its white star-shaped flowers are abundant spring through fall and are wonderfully fragrant. With so many fine Jasmines and Jasmine imitators, you will surely want to make a home for one in your garden.