How to Grow and Care for Stephanotis

Stephanotis floribunda, commonly known as Madagascar jasmine or bridal wreath, is a climbing plant admired for its elegant presentation. It features glossy, deep green leaves that provide a backdrop for its clusters of star-shaped, waxy white flowers. The blooms are highly fragrant, making this plant a popular choice for indoor cultivation and a traditional element in wedding bouquets.

Stephanotis Care Guide

Light

Proper lighting is a primary condition for a healthy Stephanotis. The plant performs best in bright, indirect sunlight, as direct, harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. An ideal indoor location is near an east-facing window that receives gentler morning light. If placed near a south- or west-facing window, filter the intense light with a sheer curtain.

Soil

Stephanotis requires a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. A combination suitable for orchids or a general-purpose potting soil amended with peat moss and perlite provides these conditions. Using a pot with adequate drainage holes is necessary to prevent water from pooling at the base, which can lead to root rot.

Water

During the active growing period in spring and summer, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. A good practice is to water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In the fall and winter, the plant’s growth slows and its water needs decrease. During this dormant period, allow the soil to dry out more between waterings.

Temperature and Humidity

As a tropical native, Stephanotis flourishes in warm and humid conditions. It prefers a consistent temperature range between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C) and should be kept away from drafts. High humidity is also beneficial and can be achieved by misting the leaves, grouping it with other plants, or placing the pot on a tray of pebbles and water.

Fertilizer

During the growing season from spring through summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. A high-potassium feed is also effective. When the plant enters its slower growth phase in autumn and winter, reduce fertilization to once a month or suspend it entirely.

Encouraging Stephanotis Blooms

To produce its signature flowers, Madagascar jasmine needs specific environmental cues that mimic its natural cycle. The plant flowers on new growth from the current year, so encouraging healthy stems is a prerequisite for a successful blooming season.

A distinct winter rest period helps stimulate flowers. Move the plant to a cooler location, with temperatures ideally between 55°F and 65°F, for several weeks. During this time, watering should be significantly reduced, allowing the soil to dry out more than usual.

As spring approaches, move the plant back to its warmer, brighter location and resume its regular watering schedule. This shift signals the end of dormancy and encourages new growth. It is important not to move the plant once it has started to form buds, as this can cause them to drop before they open.

To support the flowering process, change the fertilizer type in spring. Switch from a balanced fertilizer to one with a higher phosphorus content, often marketed as a “bloom booster.” Apply this liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the spring and summer for a prolific display of blooms.

Pruning and Supporting Your Vine

Stephanotis is a twining vine that requires physical support to grow properly. While often sold trained around a wire hoop, as they grow they will need a larger structure like a trellis. Gently tie new, pliable stems to the support to guide their growth and create a fuller display.

Pruning helps control the plant’s size, encourages fuller growth, and promotes more abundant flowering. The best time to prune is just after the main flowering season has finished. This timing prevents the accidental removal of the new stems where the next season’s flowers will develop.

When pruning, trim back longer, unruly vines and remove any stems that are dead, damaged, or weak. Lightly trimming the plant can encourage it to branch out for a bushier appearance. For a more significant pruning, you can cut stems back by up to one-third of their length.

Common Pests and Issues

Madagascar jasmine is susceptible to common sap-sucking pests like mealybugs and scale insects. These pests are often found on the undersides of leaves and at the joints where leaves meet the stem. A simple treatment for small infestations is to wipe the pests off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Yellowing leaves often point toward improper watering. Overwatering is a common cause, leading to root rot, while underwatering can also cause leaves to yellow and drop. Check the soil moisture before watering and ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent this issue.

Bud drop occurs when the plant sets flower buds that fall off before opening. This is a reaction to environmental stress, such as sudden changes in light, temperature, or location. Maintaining a consistent environment once buds have formed is the most effective way to ensure they develop into full flowers.