The Stephanotis floribunda, popularly known as Madagascar Jasmine, is a woody evergreen vine commonly planted as a houseplant. ‘Stephanos’ and ‘Otos’ are both Greek words, Stephanos meaning crown and Otos meaning ear, ‘crown of ears’ which it resembles with the flower trumpet as a meatus surrounded by the five “ears.” Pure white, waxy, extremely fragrant tubular blossoms are grouped together with glossy, leathery oval leaves. It can reach a height of almost 20 feet with a spread of 3 feet. 

Stephanotis Origin

This fragrant plant, native to Madagascar, is known with various common names such as the Madgascar jasmine, Pikafu, Bridal flower, Bridal wreath, and Wax flower. There are bout 15 species and some species are native to China, Japan and Cuba.

S. nana and S. yunnanensis in China, S. japonica and S. lutchuensis in Japan , and S. longiflora and S. vincaeflora in Cuba .

Jasmines belong to the family Oleaceae, while Stephanotis species belongs to the milkweed family known as Asclepiadaceae.

A sub-tropical to tropical climate which includes periods of hot, humid, rainy, and cool weather is a good habitat for this specie. Growing this plant indoors can be challenging and the main problem is getting it to flower and grow well instead of surviving.

Flowering

Typically tubular, Stephanotis flowers have waxy white petals fused in a star-shaped configuration. A sweet and intoxicating fragrance fills the air and Stephanotis bouquets and arrangements are popular choice for weddings and special occasions. Although they are capable of blooming at any time of the year indoors with enough light, warmth, and humidity but blooms are most abundant during spring and summer.

Botanical Name	Stephanotis Floribunda
Common Names	Madgascar Jasmine, Bridal wreath, and Wax flower
Family	Apocynaceae
Origin	Madgascar
Height	upto 15-20 Feet tall
Leaves	Leathery oval leaves
Flowers color	White Fragrant tubular flowers
Ideal Temperature	21°C-23°C
Blooms	Summer, Spring

Growing Madagascar Jasmine

To produce trumpet-shaped flowers all year round, Madagascar jasmine requires adequate light, water, and climate. Ideally, it grows in sunny, tropical environments. Keeping it indoors on a sunny windowsill can make it thrive for years to come.

It grows best in humid, tropical conditions with warm winters. During winter, reduce watering and keep in a cool place.

Where To Grow

Place stephanotis in a bright spot away from direct sunlight. Place it on a patio, balcony, or near a bright window indoors, ensuring it gets the filtered light. During the summer, plants can be moved outside or into a greenhouse, but place them inside when the temperature drops at 39 °F. A balanced fertilizer, abundant water, high humidity, and indirect full sun are required during the summer growth period.

Propagation

Cuttings taken from April through June can be used to propagate Stephanotis plants. Usually, they root in 4-6 weeks.

• Cuttings of 10cm should be taken just below a node of sturdy stems. Lower leaves should be removed.
• Put in a mix of horticultural sand/perlite and peat-free compost.
• Keep them between 18 and 21°C. You can also place it on a warm windowsill, away from direct sunlight, covered with a plastic bag.
• Upon rooting, pot into John Innes No.2 compost or the compost you consider fit.

You can also propagate the stephanotis through seeds but it requires some patience. For seeds propagation, follow these steps:

• Use a well-draining seed-starting mix. A mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite works good.
• Fill small pots of 6-8 inches or seed trays with the soil mix, and lightly moisten it.
• Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and cover them lightly with soil.
• Cover the pots with a plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.
• Place the pots in a warm, bright area with indirect sunlight.
• Keep the soil temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal germination.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Remove the cover periodically to allow airflow.
• Seeds will germinate within four to six weeks (4-6).
• Continue to provide bright, indirect light and maintain humidity.
• Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots.

Stem cuttings are most likely to be used for propagation.

Stephanotis Care

Watering

Madgascar Jasmine has an average watering needs. Once the topsoil has dried out, water the plant thoroughly. Water your plant at the base and avoid stagnant water in the armpit of the leaves which can lead to appearance of diseases.

To humidify your atmosphere in case it is too dry, place bowls of water nearby. Throughout the winter, water the soil only when the top inch of soil gets very dry. Especially in hard water areas, rainwater or distilled water is best for watering.

Light Requirements

Stephanotis floribunda is best grown outdoors in full sun to partial shade for at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. During the day, direct sunlight is fine for a few hours, but avoid the hot summer sun. The right balance of light is crucial to the health and bloom of stephanotis. Improper sunlight can cause stephanotis with yellowing of leaves or even scorched & stressed leaves.

Soil & Fertilizer

The ideal soil pH range for Madagascar jasmine plants is 5.5–6.5, which should be airy, porous, and nutrient-rich. The soil mixture needs to have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity. A good natural potting soil can also be made by mixing equal amounts of perlite, coarse sand, and good potting soil.

Use a water-soluble, well-balanced (5-10-5) NPK fertilizer designed for flowering plants that encourage prolific blooming. Fertilize Stephanotis plant once in the spring and reduce or stop fertilizing during the winter when it is dormant.  

Hardiness Zones

Stephanotis vines thrive in moderate to high humidity levels. Stephanotis floribunda usually grows best outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. Tropical regions with temperatures never below 30°F are ideal for it. Ideal temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It can still be grown outdoors during the summer and brought indoors or protected during the winter if you live in a colder region. 

Madgascar jasmine is grown in Madgascar, Hawai, Southern California and Florida.

Repotting

Repotting encourages healthy root growth by providing more space, fresh soil and other many benefits.

Every two years, the plant must be repotted. It is important to gradually increase the pot size and adapt it to the root network (the roots must have room to grow, but not too much so that the plant can dry out between waterings).

Pruning

Trim the plant regularly to shape it and remove dead flowers. By pruning, you can promote new growth and more prolific flowering. Don’t prune too much; pruning won’t increase new growth very much, unlike more popular vines. The spring and the late winter is the ideal time for Madgascar Jasmine pruning.

Stephanotis Uses

Elegant Fragrance

An intoxicating aroma fills the air with the sweet, intoxicating fragrance of Madagascar Jasmine’s white flowers. It is an excellent choice for those who seek to enhance their home’s sensory experience.

Stephanotis flowers symbolize marital happiness, good fortune, and a desire to travel.

Air Purification

Stephanotis floribunda contributes to air quality improvement along with many other houseplants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants. A healthy indoor environment is promoted by its lush green foliage, which captures impurities and releases oxygen.

Easy to Maintain

Beginners and experienced gardeners alike find this plant suitable due to its low maintenance requirements. It can flourish and lasts over a decade under proper care.

Aesthetic Appeal

An aesthetic appeal that never goes out of style can be found in the glossy dark green leaves and the striking star-shaped tubular flowers. With its graceful vines and abundant blooms, Stephanotis adds elegance to any space.

Common Problems of Madagascar Jasmine

For proper care and growth, proper surveillance and timely action is necessary. Stephanotis is susceptible to the following pests and problems: 

Root rot: Root rot in Madagascar Jasmine can occur when the soil is overwatered or poorly drained. Simply, allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again in order to prevent this.

Dropping flowers: Madagascar jasmine can be sensitive to changes in its environment. When a plant is sold or relocated, the Madagascar jasmine flowers falling off before they open. Changes in lighting and temperature as well as moving to a new location can cause flower and buds drops.

It’s important to maintain consistent care, including proper watering and light conditions and avoid sudden changes in its environment.

Insufficient blooming: Insufficient light, improper pruning and lack of nutrients can cause Madagascar Jasmine to not bloom or partial blooms.

Aphids: A cluster of these insects can be seen on leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plants. Use insecticidal soap or gently wash the plant with a stream of water to get rid of them. 

Mealybugs: Usually hiding in leaf axils or other protected areas, mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects. A cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol can be used to remove them from leaves using insecticidal soap. 

Read: Jasmine Plants Pests and Control 

Conclusion

Stephanotis is an attractive flowering vine with white tubular flowers and strong fragrance. It adds an elegant touch to any garden or floral arrangement with its glossy dark green leaves, fragrant star-shaped flowers, and ability to climb or trail. The twining stems or vine’s tendrils need to be supported by a trellis, wire round, or fence to prevent tangles. Place this houseplant anywhere and enjoy the great smell it gives off. They’re great for your living room, balcony, kitchen, wine countertop and even your bedroom.