While both plants share the common name "jasmine," their botanical relationship is distant. True Jasmine refers to plants within the Jasminum genus, part of the Oleaceae (olive) family. A classic example is Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale). In contrast, Confederate Jasmine is not a true jasmine at all. Its scientific name is Trachelospermum jasminoides, placing it in the Apocynaceae (dogbane) family, which also includes plants like oleander and periwinkle. The shared common name arises from the powerfully sweet fragrance of their flowers, which is remarkably similar to that of true Jasminum species.
Accurately distinguishing between these plants requires examining their physical attributes beyond their scent.
Flowers: True Jasmine (Jasminum spp.) typically produces flowers that are pure white, sometimes with a pink tinge on the outside on certain species. The flowers have a classic, simple shape with a tubular base that opens into five or more flat petals. Confederate Jasmine flowers are also white and pinwheel-shaped, but they have five petals that twist in a spiral pattern, reminiscent of a tiny propeller. The centers of Confederate Jasmine flowers often have a slight yellow or cream hue.
Foliage: The leaves provide a major clue. True Jasmine species often have pinnate leaves, meaning each leaf is divided into multiple smaller leaflets (e.g., 5-9 leaflets for J. officinale), arranged opposite each other on the stem. Confederate Jasmine has simple, opposite leaves that are oval to elliptical with a glossy, dark green surface. The new growth on Confederate Jasmine is often a distinctive bronze or reddish color.
Growth Habit: Both are woody vines, but their behavior differs. Many true jasmines, like Jasminum officinale, are vigorous, sometimes even considered invasive, and can become quite large. Confederate Jasmine is a more controlled, slower-growing vine that clings tightly to surfaces with its milky sap and aerial roots, making it an excellent choice for covering walls and fences without the rampant growth of some true jasmines.
While their care shares some similarities, key differences exist, primarily in cold tolerance.
Sunlight: Both plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. They will produce the most abundant flowers when they receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil and Watering: They prefer well-draining soil. Consistently moist but not waterlogged conditions are ideal, especially during their first growing season as they establish their root systems. Once established, both have moderate drought tolerance, but Confederate Jasmine is generally considered more resilient in this regard.
Temperature and Hardiness: This is a critical differentiator. True Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. It can tolerate light frosts but may die back in a hard freeze, often regrowing from the roots in spring. Confederate Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is slightly more cold-hardy, thriving in zones 7-10 and often surviving in protected parts of zone 6. Its evergreen foliage may bronze or scorch in harsh winter winds but typically remains on the plant.
Pruning and Maintenance: Prune true jasmines after their main flowering flush to control their size and shape, as they often bloom on new growth. Confederate Jasmine requires minimal pruning; it can be lightly trimmed to shape after its spring bloom. It is important to note that Confederate Jasmine exudes a milky, sticky sap when cut, which can irritate skin.
