What the pot plant really is
Jasminum polyanthum is a vigorous twining climber from China, usually sold wound around a wire hoop. The buds are pink, the open flowers white, and the scent is sweet and heavy, strongest in the evening. Not every plant with "jasmine" in its name is related: the mock orange (Philadelphus), a garden favourite for its summer scent, belongs to a different family altogether.
A cool autumn makes it flower
Irish houses tend to be warm and dry in winter, which is the opposite of what this plant wants. For good bud set it needs several weeks of cool, bright conditions in autumn, around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. An unheated porch or a spare bedroom with the radiator off does the job.
- Bring it into warmth once buds show colour.
- Give a bright windowsill with no fierce midday sun.
- Water when the top of the compost feels dry and tip away any saucer water.
Outside or inside?
It is tender and can be damaged by frost. Mild coastal gardens in the south and west may suit it in a sheltered, wall-backed spot, but most owners enjoy it as a conservatory or hallway plant and put it out only on warm summer days.
After flowering
Prune long shoots back once the flowers have faded, wind the new growth round the support and repot if roots are circling. A liquid feed every fortnight in spring and summer keeps the growth going.
Pets
The ASPCA lists Jasminum species as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. That applies to true jasmines only, so check the botanical label on any plant sold under the name.
