How to Grow and Care for Summer Sunset Asiatic Jasmine

Summer Sunset Asiatic Jasmine, or Trachelospermum asiaticum ‘Summer Sunset’, is a durable groundcover valued for its low maintenance and vibrant, multi-colored foliage. This plant provides year-round visual interest, establishing itself as a dense, woody groundcover. Its slow but steady growth habit makes it a manageable option for various landscape situations.

‘Summer Sunset’ Foliage Characteristics

The most notable feature of ‘Summer Sunset’ is its variegated foliage, which displays a blend of orange, gold, red, and green. This coloration is most prominent on new growth, creating a constantly changing appearance. The intensity of these colors shifts with the seasons, becoming more pronounced in the cooler temperatures of fall.

As leaves mature, they transition from fiery oranges and reds to softer shades of gold, cream, and green. This evolution creates a multi-toned effect across the groundcover. The plant provides a continuous display, shifting from bright spring tones to richer colors in autumn.

Growing and Care Guide

Light

Sunlight directly influences the foliage vibrancy. For the most brilliant reds and oranges, plant ‘Summer Sunset’ in full sun to partial shade. While it can grow in dense shade, the colors will be more subdued, appearing mostly green and cream. In northern climates, morning sun is often sufficient to bring out good color.

Soil

This plant thrives in average, well-draining soil and tolerates a range of types, including clay and sand. The primary requirement is to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. While it can handle temporary flooding, proper drainage is necessary for long-term health. It is adaptable to a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.0.

Water

Once established, ‘Summer Sunset’ is drought-tolerant. During its first growing season, provide consistent moisture to help its root system develop. Afterward, its water needs are minimal and it can sustain itself with natural rainfall. Let the soil dry out between waterings, as overwatering can cause aggressive growth.

Fertilizer

This plant is not a heavy feeder. A single application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is sufficient for healthy growth. Excessive fertilizing can lead to unruly growth and may diminish foliage color. A light feeding maintains the plant’s health without encouraging it to become invasive.

Pruning

Prune once a year in early spring to maintain a neat appearance, control its spread, and reduce disease risk. For large beds, mowing with a lawnmower on a high setting is an effective method. This trimming also encourages a flush of new, colorful growth.

Uses in the Landscape

‘Summer Sunset’ is versatile in garden design. Its primary use is as a dense groundcover, where its thick foliage suppresses weeds once established. It is an excellent choice for areas where turfgrass struggles, such as under the canopy of large trees.

It also excels in other landscape applications. It can be planted on slopes and banks to help with erosion control. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for spilling over retaining walls, containers, and hanging baskets. It can even be trained to climb a trellis or fence to provide a vertical accent.