Stephanotis floribunda , also do it as S. jasminoides , is often referred to as “ Stephanotis ” or “ Madagascar Jasmine . ” While the common figure may suggest a closelipped relationship to jasmine , the scientific classification in reality places it in a different family altogether . Stephanotis is more nearly related to the American milkweed , belonging to the family Apocynaceae , while jasmine go to the family Oleaceae .
I have amount across this confusion quite often in my horticulture and landscaping endeavors . The name “ jasminoides ” does imply a resemblance to jasmine , and the fragrant bloodless flowers of Stephanotis do bear a resemblance to those of certain jasmine coinage . However , it is important to take note that Stephanotis is a distinguishable plant life with its own unique feature .
One cardinal conflict between Stephanotis and jasmine is their outgrowth wont . Stephanotis is a vine that can wax and distort around structures , while jasmine plants can be either bush or vine . In my experience , Stephanotis vines can be quite vigorous and want regular pruning and training to keep them in check . On the other hand , some jasmine coinage can be more compact and bushy , making them worthy for hedges or molding .
Another noticeable difference is in the leaf of Stephanotis and jasmine . Stephanotis has leathery , dark dark-green leaf that are diametric , mean they grow in pairs on opposite sides of the stem . Jasmine , on the other hand , typically has lighter green leave of absence that are arrange alternately along the stem .
In term of flower show , Stephanotis and certain jasmine species do portion out similarity . Both produce little , white , sensation - shaped blossom that are extremely fragrant . The fragrance of Stephanotis bloom is often described as sweet and intoxicating , similar to that of jasmine . This is perhaps why Stephanotis bring in the unwashed name “ Madagascar Jasmine . ”
While Stephanotis and jasmine may have some similarities in flower appearance and scent , it is important to recognize their taxonomic differences . Stephanotis belongs to the kinfolk Apocynaceae , which includes plants like Sonchus oleraceus and rose bay , while jasmine belongs to the family Oleaceae , which includes flora like European olive tree and lilac .
To summarise the main difference of opinion between Stephanotis and jasmine :
Stephanotis ( S. floribunda ): – belong to the family Apocynaceae – Is a vine that can climb and twine – Has leathery , dark green leave of absence order in yoke – get small , white , headliner - shaped flush with a sweet fragrance
Jasmine ( Oleaceae family ): – belong to the family Oleaceae – Can be a shrub or a vine – Has lighter dark-green leaves arrange alternately – give rise pocket-sized , white , superstar - forge flowers with a mellisonant fragrance
While Stephanotis and jasmine may share some similarities in heyday coming into court and fragrance , they are in reality dissimilar plants with distinct taxonomic classifications . interpret these differences can help in selecting and caring for these plants in the garden or landscape painting .
Caroline Bates
