General Description/History

Stephanotis look very similar to Bouvardia, but have larger flowers, are more fragrant and only come in white. They are very popular bridal flowers, particularly in bridal bouquets.

The plant is a vine, and branches are cut off for sale. Leaves are dark green and slightly curled. The trumpet-shaped flowers are borne in clusters of 4 or more at the ends of branches. They only come in white or cream, but it is the sweet fragrance that is the real attraction of these flowers. The scent is strongly reminiscent of the true jasmine, Jasminum officinale, hence the common name. However, these species are not at all related: Stephanotis belongs to the milkweed family, Asclepiadaceae, while the Jasmines are members of the olive family, Oleaceae.

Stephanotis is grown under cover in glass or poly houses. Most are grown in Victoria, NSW and QLD.

What to look for

• At least 2 flowers per stem are fully open;
• Strong fragrance;
• Avoid bunches with marked or brown flowers and yellow leaves.

Flower Care

1. Keep cool at all times.
2. Strip leaves from the bottom half of each stem.
3. Recut 2 cm off each stem with sharp secateurs, and place in cold water immediately.
4. Preservative is essential– it will help buds to open and maintain scent.
5. Replace water every day.
6. These flowers are very sensitive to ethylene. Keep them away from fruit, car exhausts and cigarette smoke.

Interesting Facts about this Flower

This flower is a symbol for marital happiness, and in the Language of Flowers means ‘good luck’.
The name Stephanotis comes from the Greek: stephonos meaning ‘crown’ and otos which is ‘ear’; a ‘crown of ears’ which it faintly resembles.

Botanical Name: Stephanotis floribunda

Common Names: Madagascar Jasmine, Stephanotis

Stem Length: 30 to 50 cm

Country of Origin: Madagascar

Available Colours: Cream, White

Season: Summer,Autumn

Availability: January,February,March,Decemeber