Trachelospermum jasminoides Tricolor (Tricolour)
Description: Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Tricolor', commonly known as Tricolor Star Jasmine or Tricolor Confederate Jasmine, is a striking evergreen vine prized for its highly fragrant, star-shaped white flowers and variegated foliage. This cultivar is particularly valued for its unique leaf coloration, combining shades of green, pink, and cream, making it an excellent choice for adding visual interest to trellises, fences, and containers.
Flowers:
Blooms: The plant produces an abundance of small, white, star-shaped flowers from late spring through summer. The flowers are highly fragrant and visually striking.
Fragrance: The flowers have a strong, sweet fragrance that is especially noticeable in the evening and early morning.
Foliage:
Leaves: The leaves are glossy and variegated with shades of green, cream, and pink. New growth often emerges with a pink or reddish tint, adding to the plant's visual appeal.
Seasonal Color: The variegated foliage provides year-round interest, with the colors becoming more pronounced in cooler weather.
Fruit:
Fruit: The plant occasionally produces slender, bean-like seed pods. These are generally not significant for ornamental value.
Form and Size:
Size: Typically grows 3-6 meters long, depending on the support provided. It can be pruned to maintain a more compact size.
Habit: Vigorous, twining, and climbing habit, making it suitable for covering trellises, fences, and walls.
Growing Conditions:
Climate: Thrives in temperate to subtropical climates and is suitable for various regions in Australia. It can tolerate light frosts and coastal conditions.
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 full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes the best flowering and foliage color, while partial shade is tolerated.
Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it benefits from consistent moisture but can tolerate short periods of drought.
Uses:
Ornamental Vine: Highly valued as an ornamental vine for its fragrant flowers and variegated foliage.
Trellises and Arbors: Ideal for covering trellises, arbors, and pergolas, creating a lush, colorful canopy.
Ground Cover: Can be used as a ground cover in larger areas where it can sprawl and spread.
Containers: Suitable for growing in large containers with support structures, making it versatile for patios and small gardens.
Maintenance:
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and control growth. Regular pruning helps keep the plant tidy and encourages bushier growth.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and prolific flowering.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to many 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 8-11. In cooler regions of Australia, provide protection from severe frost to prevent damage to new growth.
Companion Plants: Pair with other fragrant plants such as gardenias, roses, and lavender to create a sensory garden. It also works well with other climbers like clematis and climbing roses.
Propagation: Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or by layering in spring or autumn
Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Tricolor'
Common Name: Tricolor Star Jasmine, Tricolor Confederate Jasmine
Botanical Name: Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Tricolor'
Family: Apocynaceae
Origin: Cultivated variety of Trachelospermum jasminoides
