Fragrant Plants – Carolina Or Confederate Jasmine?

Q: I have an arch trellis and want to put a fragrant plant on both sides. Which would be better, Carolina jasmine or Confederate jasmine?

A: I think one of the vines you’re considering is actually Carolina jessamine, Gelsemium sempervirens, not Carolina jasmine. The yellow flowers of Carolina jessamine are attractive but they are only moderately fragrant. On the other hand, Confederate jasmine, Trachelospermum jasminoides, smells great! This vine may be damaged a bit from cold weather occasionally but I think it’s your best choice. The variety ‘Madison’ is reputed to be more cold tolerant.