Evening Trumpetflower

(Gelsemium sempervirens)

Evening Trumpetflower (Gelsemium sempervirens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Gelsemium sempervirens, commonly known as Evening Trumpetflower, is an evergreen perennial vine or shrub native to open woodlands, forest edges, and scrub areas in the Southeastern USA, extending into Central America in countries such as Guatemala and Honduras. It thrives in the warm climates of these regions, often climbing high into the forest canopy. This species can reach 3–6 m (10–20 ft) in height when supported by trees or other structures, with slender, wiry stems. The flowers, which appear in late winter to spring, are yellow, occasionally with an orange center, and trumpet-shaped, measuring 3 cm (1+1⁄4 in) in length and 2.5–3 cm (1–1+1⁄4 in) in diameter. They are highly fragrant and attract a variety of pollinators with their nectar.

Evening Trumpetflower is valued for its aromatic, showy flowers and is often used to adorn arbors, trellises, and walls, especially in warmer regions. It has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its excellence for garden use. While it can tolerate mild and coastal UK climates, it requires protection or greenhouse cultivation in colder areas. For optimal growth, it prefers a sheltered location with full sun to light shade, moderate watering, and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to pests like aphids and mealybugs. It is also toxic if ingested, so caution is advised when planting in areas accessible to pets and children.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 12-20 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, forest edges, and scrub areas in the Southeastern USA, extending into Central America

Other Names

Common Names: Carolina Jasmine, Evening Trumpet-Flower, Woodbine, Gelsemium, Yellow Jessamine, Giftjasmin, Carolina Jessamine

Scientific Names: , Gelsemium sempervirens, Gelsemium nitidum, Bignonia sempervirens, Bigonia sempervirens, Gelsemium lucidum, Gelsemium nitidum var. inodorum, Jeffersonia sempervirens, Lisianthius sempervirens, Lisianthius volubilis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Gelsemium sempervirens (L.) J.St.-Hil.