Description: Stephanotis floribunda, commonly known as Madagascar Jasmine or Bridal Veil, is an evergreen, twining vine prized for its fragrant, waxy white flowers. This plant is particularly valued for its ornamental appeal and is often used in wedding bouquets and floral arrangements due to its beautiful, aromatic blooms.

Flowers:

• Blooms: The vine produces clusters of tubular, waxy white flowers in spring and summer. The blooms are star-shaped and highly ornamental.
• Fragrance: The flowers have a strong, sweet fragrance, especially noticeable in the evening.

Foliage:

• Leaves: The leaves are dark green, leathery, and oval-shaped, providing a lush backdrop to the flowers. They remain attractive throughout the year.
• Seasonal Color: The foliage maintains its deep green color year-round.

Fruit:

• Fruit: Occasionally produces large, pear-shaped seed pods. These are not typically significant for ornamental value but can be interesting to observe.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 3-6 meters long when supported by a trellis or other structure.
• Habit: Twining and climbing habit, making it suitable for growing on trellises, arbors, and other supports.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates and is suitable for warm regions in Australia. It can be grown indoors in cooler climates.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soils but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
• Sunlight: Best grown in bright, indirect light when indoors. When grown outdoors, it prefers partial shade to full sun.
• Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during the growing season. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering.

Uses:

• Ornamental Vine: Highly valued as an ornamental vine for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.
• Containers: Suitable for growing in containers, making it a versatile choice for patios, balconies, and indoor settings.
• Trellises and Arbors: Ideal for growing on trellises, arbors, and other supports to showcase its climbing habit.
• Wedding Bouquets: Popular for use in wedding bouquets and floral arrangements due to its fragrant, white blooms.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood. Pruning encourages bushier growth and enhances the plant’s appearance.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and prolific flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Monitor for common pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Maintain good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 10-11. In cooler regions of Australia, grow indoors or provide protection from frost.
• Companion Plants: Pair with other tropical and subtropical plants such as ferns, peace lilies, and anthuriums to create a lush indoor garden.

Propagation: Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or summer, or by seed

Stephanotis floribunda

Common Name: Madagascar Jasmine, Bridal Veil, Waxflower

Botanical Name: Stephanotis floribunda

Family: Apocynaceae

Origin: Native to Madagascar

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