About Stephanotis floribunda Brongn.
Stephanotis floribunda Brongn. is an evergreen woody climber that grows to 6 metres (20 feet) or more. It has glossy dark green, leathery, oval leaves that reach up to about 5 by 9 centimetres in size. It produces clusters of pure white, waxy, intensely fragrant tubular, star-shaped flowers that are around 3 centimetres long. The flowers form in axillary umbels, with a flowering period from spring to fall, and peak blooming occurs in summer. This vine only flowers on new growth, so pruning should be kept to a minimum, especially during the growing season. After several days, open flowers fade to yellow, and their deep rich fragrance becomes sour. After flowering, the vine produces large, plum-like, ovoid fruits that contain numerous seeds with a pappus; however, these fruits rarely develop on indoor cultivated specimens. Madagascar's native climate, with moderate temperatures, high humidity, and seasonal cycles of hot wet summers and cool dry winters, provides optimal growing conditions for this species. It is grown commercially, and its trumpet-shaped blooms are available year-round when provided with enough light and water; the flowers are a popular component of bridal bouquets. It grows best in sunny, tropical conditions, or can be grown indoors. In areas where outdoor winter temperatures drop below 4 °C (39 °F), it can be overwintered in greenhouses or indoor spaces. During the summer growing season, this vine requires full sun, abundant water, high humidity, and balanced fertilizer. When temperatures cool, potted plants should be brought indoors and placed in the sunniest available location. This species grows best when it is root bound. The ideal soil mixture has a high content of loam and peat moss, with ample drainage material such as perlite or coarse sand. While it does not technically go dormant, its growth slows and flowering becomes infrequent if it is kept in cool, dry conditions. This plant has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It can be propagated by cuttings or by seeds, which are produced irregularly.
