Where the pink comes from
Pink is part of the pot jasmine's charm: the flower buds of Jasminum polyanthum are deep pink before opening white, and the colour often shows on the back of the petals. For a truly pink-flowered garden jasmine, look to Jasminum x stephanense, a hybrid climber with pale pink flowers in summer.
Pot jasmine at its pinkest
Buy a plant while most buds are still closed: this is when the pink is strongest, and you will get the longest display. Open flowers fade to white, so the pink is a time-limited show.
- A bright window with morning sun is ideal.
- Turn the pot every week so it grows evenly.
- Water lightly and never leave it standing in water.
Giving a pink jasmine
Pink jasmine suits small gifts: a new home, a birthday, or Mothering Sunday in March, when the plant is in full bud and scented. In the language of flowers jasmine traditionally means grace and affection.
The hybrid climber outdoors
Jasminum x stephanense is more tolerant than the houseplant, and a sheltered wall in most of Ireland should suit it. Prune after flowering to keep it tidy.
Safe around animals?
The ASPCA lists jasmine in the genus Jasminum as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. As always, check the plant tag, because some climbers sold as jasmine belong to other families.
