Overview
Crepe Jasmine is a tropical evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and abundant white pinwheel flowers. It creates a clean flowering screen or specimen in warm Tampa courtyards and protected foundation beds.
Mature Size and Habit
Plants commonly reach 6 to 10 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide, with a dense rounded to upright habit. Double-flowered selections can look fuller, while single forms display a clear pinwheel flower shape.
Best Landscape Uses
Use it as a flowering hedge, courtyard specimen, foundation accent, or pool-area screen. Its white flowers show well against dark foliage and perform best where the plant receives enough space to grow naturally.
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade is suitable. Morning sun and light afternoon shade work well in Tampa. Deep shade reduces flowering and creates open growth.
Soil and Drainage
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil. It accepts sand when organic matter and irrigation are adequate. Avoid low wet areas and compacted planting holes that hold water around the roots.
Irrigation
Water consistently during establishment. Mature shrubs prefer moderate moisture but tolerate short dry periods. Allow the root zone to drain between cycles.
Best Planting Season
Plant from late spring through early fall after cold risk passes. Warm soil supports fast rooting. In Tampa, select a protected site before winter arrives.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune lightly after a flowering flush to maintain density. Selective cuts preserve the natural form better than constant shearing. Remove cold-damaged stems after the danger of frost has passed.
Wildlife Value
Flowers attract moths, butterflies, bees, and other insects. The dense foliage also gives small wildlife limited shelter, though native shrubs offer broader ecological benefits.
Cold and Heat Sensitivity
It thrives in heat and humidity. Frost damages foliage and can kill exposed stems. Use a warm microclimate protected from north wind and reflected winter cold.
Toxicity, Thorns, and Roots
The plant produces milky latex that can irritate skin and eyes. Plant parts should not be eaten and may harm pets or people if ingested. It has no thorns. Roots are generally nonaggressive.
Invasive and Placement Concerns
It is nonnative and not generally listed as a major Florida invasive. Monitor seedlings and suckers where they occur. Keep it away from cold pockets and paths where milky sap from pruning would contact pedestrians.
Authoritative Resources
Review NC State Extension Plant Toolbox and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Local Delivery
Local delivery only in approved South Tampa ZIP codes. $600.00 minimum plant order. $100.00 flat delivery fee. Ecoscape will contact you to schedule delivery.