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Carolina Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), Vine
Vine

Carolina Jessamine

Gelsemium sempervirens

Varieties We Bring In

StandardGelsemium sempervirensYellowGelsemium sempervirens
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$29.95
7 galFrom$49.95

Last received Jul 19, 2026.

We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.

Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.

LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size10-20 feet × 3-6 feet

Pet toxicity: Toxic to dogs and cats

Pet safety guide

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.

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

Recommended months: March, April, May, September, October, November.

January, other month
February, other month
March, good window
April, good window
May, good window
June, other month
July, other month
August, other month
September, good window
October, good window
November, good window, this month
December, other month
This monthGood windowOther months

Seasonal care

Bloom season. Good planting window.

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.

Similar needs

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Common questions

Is Carolina Jessamine a good plant for St. Augustine?

Carolina Jessamine is a vine. Mature size: 10-20 feet × 3-6 feet. Light: Full Sun, Part Sun. Water needs: Low to Moderate. Carolina Jessamine is native to Florida. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a.

What is the recorded pet toxicity for Carolina Jessamine?

Toxic to dogs and cats

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.