Margarita Gelsemium

‘Margarita’ is a cold-hardy selection of Carolina jessamine, an evergreen twining vine with glossy foliage and fragrant yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. It flowers heavily in spring, may rebloom sporadically in fall, and can climb 10–20 feet when given a sturdy support. [Garden Debut](https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Sunseeker-Carolina-Jessamine) and its grower, [Greenleaf Nursery](https://www.greenleafnursery.com/plant/SUNSEEKERTM-CAROLINA-JESSAMINE), identify the selection as Gelsemium sempervirens ‘Margarita’ and describe these traits. ## Garden Use Train young stems onto a trellis, fence, arbor, or pergola; without a support, the vine can spread as a groundcover. Full sun encourages the best flowering, though light shade is tolerated. Its evergreen leaves and fragrant spring bloom suit an entry, patio edge, or vertical planting where the flowers can be appreciated. The [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/gelsemium-sempervirens-margarita-margarita-false-jasmine) records yellow flowers and zones 6–9 for the named selection. ## Growing Conditions Plant in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil. Water new vines regularly while they establish; established plants tolerate short dry spells, but perform best with adequate moisture. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/gelsemium-sempervirens/) recommends full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil for Carolina jessamine, and [SiteOne](https://www.siteone.com/en/82075b-gelsemium-sempervirens-sunseeker-garden-debut-carolina-jessamine/p/804517) notes drought tolerance once established for the Sunseeker™ selection. ## Maintenance Tie new growth to its support and prune after flowering to shape the vine. All parts of Carolina jessamine are poisonous, so keep the plant away from edible harvest areas and prevent ingestion by children or pets; see [UF/IFAS safety guidance](https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/carolina-jessamine/).