Vine
Carolina Jessamine
Gelsemium sempervirens
Varieties We Carry
StandardGelsemium sempervirensYellowGelsemium sempervirens
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$29.95
7 galFrom$49.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Apr 13.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size10-20 feet × 3-6 feet
About Carolina Jessamine
Carolina Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) is a Florida-native evergreen twining vine producing masses of fragrant, bright yellow tubular flowers in late winter and early spring — a welcome sign of the season in NE Florida landscapes. It grows vigorously on trellises, fences, and arbors and is the state flower of South Carolina. Note: all parts are highly toxic if ingested; nectar may be harmful to honeybees in large quantities. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Winter
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Grows in full sun to part sun; maximizes bloom production in full sun. In NE Florida, plant against a south-facing fence or trellis for best late-winter flower display. Tolerates part shade but flowers less profusely.
Water
Moderately drought-tolerant once established in NE Florida's sandy soils. Water regularly for the first year; thereafter, supplemental irrigation is needed only during prolonged dry spells. Avoid wet, poorly drained sites.
Soil & Fertilizer
Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic sandy to loamy soils typical of NE Florida. Amend heavy soils with sand or organic matter. Feed lightly with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring after flowering; this native vine thrives without heavy fertilization.
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Common questions
Is Carolina Jessamine a good plant for St. Augustine?
Carolina Jessamine is a vine for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 10-20 feet × 3-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.