If you're looking to add an exotic, fragrant, and eye-catching climber to your indoor or outdoor garden, Stephanotis floribunda, also known as Madagascar jasmine, waxflower, or bridal wreath, is a must-have. Native to Madagascar, this evergreen woody vine belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is known for its stunning white, waxy flowers and rich fragrance. Despite its name, it's not a "true jasmine" and does not belong to the Jasminum genus.

Botanical Highlights

• Scientific Name: Stephanotis floribunda (syn. S. jasminoides)

• Family: Apocynaceae

• Common Names: Madagascar jasmine, waxflower, Hawaiian wedding flower, bridal wreath

• Origin: Madagascar

• Growth Habit: Twining, sparsely branched liana, can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) in length

Description

Stephanotis floribunda is admired for its:

• Leaves: Glossy, dark green, oval-shaped, with a leathery texture, reaching up to 5 x 9 cm in size.

• Flowers: Pure white, waxy, star-shaped, and intensely fragrant. Each flower is about 3 cm long and blooms in clusters during summer. The scent is rich and pleasant, although it can turn sour as the flowers fade to yellow.

• Fruit: Large, plum-like ovoid fruits containing numerous seeds, though fruiting is rare in indoor-grown plants.

Note: The plant flowers on new growth, so minimal pruning is essential during the growing season.

Cultivation Tips

Madagascar’s tropical climate provides the ideal growing conditions for Stephanotis floribunda, but it can also thrive in controlled indoor environments. Here’s how to care for it:

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to bright, indirect light indoors.

• Water: Abundant watering in summer; reduce watering during cooler months.

• Humidity: Prefers high humidity levels.

• Temperature: Keep above 4°C (39°F). Ideal range: 18-24°C (64-75°F).

• Soil: Well-draining mix with loam, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand.

• Fertilizer: Balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Winter Care

In regions where temperatures drop below 4°C, bring the plant indoors. Position it in the sunniest spot, and avoid overwatering. While the plant does not go fully dormant, growth slows in cool, dry conditions, and flowering may stop.

Propagation

Propagation can be done via cuttings or seeds, though seeds are rarely produced in indoor conditions.

Stephanotis in Floral Design

Thanks to its elegant and fragrant blooms, Stephanotis floribunda is a popular choice in bridal bouquets and wedding decorations, often referred to as the "Hawaiian wedding flower."

Awards

Stephanotis floribunda has earned the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, a testament to its beauty and performance in gardens and homes alike.

Final Thoughts

Stephanotis floribunda is perfect for gardeners seeking a luxurious, aromatic addition to their plant collection. Whether used as an ornamental vine or for its symbolic presence in weddings, this plant combines beauty, fragrance, and elegance in one stunning package.

Do you grow Stephanotis in your home or garden? Share your experience in the comments!