Winter Jasmine

Winter jasmine is a deciduous, arching shrub whose bright yellow, non-fragrant flowers open on bare green stems before its leaves emerge. It can be grown as a low, sprawling groundcover or trained over a wall, slope, or support ([NC State Extension plant profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/jasminum-nudiflorum/)). ## Seasonal Interest In North Carolina, flowering commonly occurs in January and February, bringing color to the winter garden. The three-part leaves emerge after bloom, and the slender green stems remain visible through the growing season. Plants may root where arching stems touch the ground, gradually widening a planting. ## Growing Conditions Grow in full sun or partial shade; heavy shade reduces flowering. Winter jasmine accepts varied soil but performs best in well-drained ground. NC State reports a shrub form up to about 4 feet tall and a trained vine 10–15 feet tall and 3–6 feet wide; dimensions depend on training and support. Its listed USDA range is zones 6a–10b. ## Maintenance Prune just after flowering, because the next display forms on the previous year’s growth. Remove old or wayward canes to keep a tidy mound, and contain stems that root where they touch soil. The NC State profile also describes the species for mass planting on slopes and trailing over walls.