Oh boy, the freezing cold days of winter has left me a bit down until I saw these gorgeous Stephanotis and Gardenias at my local garden center. Yes, that’s right, I need a bit of spring magic and my local garden center does not disappoint.
Of course, it is no where near spring but I noted these blooming flowers in the green house and was a little curious about them. For some reason, the blooms on these vines reminds me a bit of orange tree blossoms. However, you definitely smell their lovely fragrance before you see them.
I like the Stephanotis plants that are trained to grow on the round wire form.
Stephanotis and Gardenias Information
Stephanotis is also known as Madagascar jasmine or bridal flower. This flowing vine has small white flowers which are very fragrant. Apparently, the vine grows best in humid, tropical settings with warm winters. The plant require full sunshine and consistent temperatures between 65 to 90 degrees F. The Stephanotis also likes well drained soil. Mature size for the plant is 3-4 feet but outdoors it can grow 10-20 feet. Actually, it blooms in the spring and summer time.
I wasn’t able to find much on why the plant is sometimes called the Bridal Flower. I imagine they use it in bridal bouquets due to its lovely perfumed aroma. However, on line, I didn’t see too many bouquets made with the vine.
I actually like a few vines hanging from a bridal bouquet. I had small variegated ivy in my bouquet. My relative tossed my bridal bouquet in my kitchen sink with water while I was on my honeymoon. When I came back, I took the ivy out and grew it in a crock. Sadly, I grew it for many years until a frost killed the entire plant. I should have been more careful about it.
Now back, to the main blog on Stephanotis plants.
Care of Stephanotis Plants
So, the care tag on the plant states it needs very bright, indirect light. Water enough to maintain an even soil moisture. The plant should be watered when the top one inch of soil becomes slightly dry. Make sure the plant has proper drainage. Maintain temperature of 70 degrees F and 74 degrees F.
The above photograph shows gardenias on the right side. Unfortunately, the gardenias are not in bloom yet.
I remember my Aunt bringing me a large gardenia. Oh no, on that one. My place only a few windows not to mention it was cold and drafty. Unfortunately the gardenia didn’t like its new home and died rather quickly.
However, if I ever get another gardenia, I know to now check the care of the plant. Gardening is so often a trial and error learning experience.
Ending Notes on Stephanotis and Gardenias Blog
OK, I enjoyed checking out the Stephanotis and Gardenias in the local garden center but I’m also hoping the deep freeze we are experiencing soon leaves my area. Roll on spring, as they say.
Thank You to Merrifield Garden Center for allowing me to photograph and blog about items in your store. It’s always a treat to see what new plants you have.
All items on the photographs can, also, be found at Merrifield Garden Center.
Resource Sites: Wikipedia and the spruce.com