Source: Wikimedia Commons
Asiatic jasmine
BeginnerTrachelospermum asiaticum
An evergreen climber with fragrant, pinwheel-twisted white flowers in early summer. In bonsai, small-leaved forms such as the crinkled 'Chirimen-kazura' are favoured for their red new growth and winter colouring.
About
Teika-kazura (Trachelospermum asiaticum) is an evergreen climber of the dogbane family native to Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, growing at the edges of woods and cedar plantations and on damp rocks. Its name is said to come from the Noh play 'Teika'. In May–June it bears white flowers 2–3 cm across whose five lobes twist like fan blades, fading to pale yellow; the scent is strong enough to earn it the name 'climbing gardenia'. The leathery, glossy leaves are 3–7 cm long; evergreen, some turn red after frost. Leaf size and shape vary with conditions, and bonsai growers have long prized small-leaved plants under names such as chitose-zuru and setta-zuru. A form often seen in bonsai is the small-leaved 'Chirimen-kazura', whose leaves are finely crinkled like crepe, mixing red new leaves with green older ones, with bark turning grey-white with age. Golden-leaved forms and the variegated 'Hatsuyuki-kazura' are also sold. It takes pruning well and can be trained to stand on its own in a pot. The white sap from cut stems and leaf stalks contains toxic compounds and may irritate sensitive skin, so wear gloves when pruning.
Size of the Asiatic jasmine
The Asiatic jasmine grows to Vines reach 5–10 m (kept small by pruning as bonsai).
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu); a related form grows in Korea
Lifespan
Little data on lifespan
Size
Vines reach 5–10 m (kept small by pruning as bonsai)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (monthly April–October)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Sunny, airy spot; the chirimen form is said not to need summer shading
Watering
Water young plants generously; once the shape is set, water more sparingly to keep leaves small
Temperature & overwintering
The species is cold-hardy, but one guide calls the chirimen form tender; overwinter in a cold frame or indoors away from direct heating
Soil & repotting
Repot early to mid-May: yearly when young, every 2 years when mature, in about 8 parts akadama to 2 parts grit
Fertilizer
Monthly organic fertilizer such as oilcake April–October to keep the leaves glossy
Pruning & styling
On established plants cut new and last year's shoots to 1–2 nodes in mid-May, then trim later growth to about 2 nodes until August. Wire June–July; thick stems hardly set
Pests & cautions
Few pests, though aphids may visit new shoots. The white sap is toxic and can irritate skin—wear gloves
Asiatic jasmine FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Asiatic jasmine?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Asiatic jasmine get?
The mature size of Asiatic jasmine is Vines reach 5–10 m (kept small by pruning as bonsai). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Asiatic jasmine?
Asiatic jasmine: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (monthly April–October). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Asiatic jasmine?
The price of Asiatic jasmine varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. It is native to Japan—choose nursery-grown plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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