Despite their common names, Confederate Jasmine and Star Jasmine are not closely related botanically. This fundamental difference influences many of their characteristics. Confederate Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is a member of the Apocynaceae (dogbane) family. It is a true woody vine, known for its vigorous climbing habit. The species name "jasminoides" means "resembling jasmine," which points to the origin of its common name. Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) belongs to the same genus and family. However, it is a distinctly different species. It is often considered a more shrub-like or sprawling plant, though it can also be trained as a climber. Understanding this taxonomic distinction is the first step in choosing the right plant, as it dictates growth patterns, hardiness, and overall form.
The growth habit is a primary differentiator between these two plants. Confederate Jasmine is an aggressive, high-climbing vine. It uses twining stems to rapidly cover structures, easily reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet or more if supported. It is an excellent choice for covering large fences, arbors, or walls where a dense, lush curtain of greenery is desired. In contrast, Star Jasmine has a slower, more controlled growth pattern. It typically grows as a dense, low-growing mound or ground cover, usually staying under 3 to 6 feet in height but spreading widely. It can be trained to climb a short trellis or wall but lacks the vigorous vertical ambition of its cousin. This makes Star Jasmine ideal for erosion control on slopes, as a sprawling shrub, or for a low decorative fence.
While similar at a glance, the foliage of these two species has notable differences upon closer inspection. Confederate Jasmine boasts larger, darker green leaves that are typically oval or elongated with a pronounced glossy sheen. The leaves are evergreen in warmer climates but may turn a dramatic bronze-purple color in cooler winter temperatures, adding seasonal interest. Star Jasmine has smaller, more leathery leaves that are a lighter, brighter shade of green. The new growth often emerges with a reddish-bronze tint, maturing to green. The leaves are generally more compact and dense on the plant, contributing to its value as a ground cover where a uniform texture is important.
Both plants are celebrated for their fragrant, star-shaped flowers, but the details of the bloom differ. Confederate Jasmine produces a spectacular display of pure white, pinwheel-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer. The fragrance is intensely sweet and pervasive, often carrying a considerable distance on the air. This is the classic "jasmine" scent many gardeners seek. Star Jasmine also produces clusters of star-shaped flowers, but they are typically a pale, creamy yellow or ivory color, especially when they first open. The fragrance is still sweet and pleasant but is generally considered milder and less potent than that of Confederate Jasmine. Star Jasmine may also have a longer, if less spectacular, blooming period, often with sporadic flowers appearing throughout the warmer months.
Your local climate is a critical factor in the decision. Confederate Jasmine is less cold-tolerant, thriving best in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10. It can suffer significant damage or die back in zones 7 and below if exposed to harsh winters. It prefers a warm, protected location. Star Jasmine is the hardier of the two, reliably evergreen in Zones 7b through 10 and often surviving with protection in Zone 7a. Its greater cold tolerance makes it a suitable choice for gardeners in regions that experience occasional frosts or milder winters where Confederate Jasmine would struggle. Both plants prefer well-drained soil and will tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
