TRACHELOSPERMUM J. WINTER RUBY

Planting & Positioning

• Trachelospermum jasminoides ‘Winter Ruby’ is an evergreen climbing plant valued for its glossy green foliage that develops rich bronze-red tones in winter and its fragrant white summer flowers.

• Best planted in full sun or light partial shade for the strongest flowering and winter colour.

• Choose a warm, sheltered position, ideally against a south- or west-facing wall to benefit from reflected heat.

• Prefers fertile, well-drained soil and will not tolerate prolonged winter waterlogging.

• Improve heavy soils by incorporating grit or organic matter before planting.

• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth as the pot.

• Position the plant so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil.

• Backfill, firm gently, and water thoroughly after planting.

• Provide sturdy support such as trellis, wires, or fencing, tying in young shoots as they grow.

• Apply a mulch in spring to conserve moisture, keeping it clear of the stem.

‘Winter Ruby’ is ideal for walls, pergolas, and fences, offering year-round interest and seasonal colour change.

Watering, Feeding & Flowering

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots.

• Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between watering, but do not let young plants dry out completely.

• Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from watering during prolonged dry spells.

• Container-grown plants require more frequent watering, particularly in warm weather.

• Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser.

• A light feed in early summer can help promote abundant flowering.

• Avoid excessive nitrogen-rich fertilisers, which may encourage leafy growth rather than flowers.

• Flowering typically occurs from early to mid-summer, producing masses of fragrant white blooms.

The sweet scent is strongest in warm weather, making it well suited to patios and seating areas.

Pruning, Maintenance & Winter Care

• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and manage size.

• Remove long or untidy shoots and tie in new growth to its support structure.

• Avoid heavy pruning in late autumn, as this may reduce flowering the following year.

• In colder regions, protect young plants during severe frost with horticultural fleece.

• Established plants are hardy in sheltered gardens but may experience leaf damage in prolonged freezing conditions.

• Ensure excellent drainage through winter to prevent root problems.

• Container plants can be moved to a sheltered position during harsh winter weather.

• Check occasionally for pests such as aphids or scale insects and treat if necessary.

With warmth, shelter, and well-drained soil, Trachelospermum jasminoides ‘Winter Ruby’ will provide evergreen coverage, striking winter foliage colour, and beautifully fragrant flowers each summer.