Chinese Emperor Jasmine (Jasminum sambac)

Experience the height of floral luxury! Jasminum sambac 'Chinese Emperor' (also known as Rose Jasmine) is a highly prized, ultra-fragrant variety celebrated for its magnificent, multi-layered double blooms that look just like miniature white roses.

As the flowers open throughout spring and summer, they release an intensely sweet, heady perfume that fills the surrounding air, becoming especially fragrant during warm summer evenings.

Unlike common rambling jasmines, the Chinese Emperor variety forms a neat, compact evergreen shrub or light semi-climber with lush, dark green foliage. It thrives in Perth’s warm climate, making it an exceptional choice for planting near outdoor entertaining areas, entryways, or in large patio containers where its captivating fragrance can be fully enjoyed.

Key Features

• Rose-Like Double Flowers: Produces exquisite, multi-petaled pure white blooms that resemble delicate mini roses or small camellias.
• Intense Evening Fragrance: Unlocks a powerful, sweet floral perfume that intensifies as the sun sets, creating a paradise in your evening garden.
• Compact Semi-Climbing Habit: Naturally grows as a neat, bushy shrub (1.5m – 2.5m) or light climber, making it ideal for trellises, sunny walls, courtyards, or pots.
• Lush Evergreen Foliage: Deep green, glossy leaves provide year-round beauty and greenery even when the plant is between bloom flushes.
• Container Friendly: Easily maintained in large containers or pots, allowing you to move it into protected spots during winter extremes.

Care & Growing Tips for Perth

• Position: Plant in full sun to partial shade (at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily for maximum flower development). Shield young foliage from severe winter frosts and dry easterly winds.
• Soil: Requires rich, well-draining soil. In Perth's sandy soil, enrich heavily with compost, organic manure, and soil improver.
• Watering: Water regularly and deeply during Perth’s warm spring and dry summer months. Reduce watering during winter dormancy to prevent soggy roots.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after each flowering flush to maintain desired shape, encourage fresh new growth, and trigger more flower buds.
• Fertilizer: Feed with a slow-release flowering fertilizer or organic liquid feed during spring and summer to fuel continuous blooms.

Quick Specifications

• Botanical Name: Jasminum sambac ('Chinese Emperor' / 'Rose Jasmine').
• Common Name: Chinese Emperor Jasmine / Double Sambac Jasmine.
• Growth Habit: Compact evergreen shrub or light semi-climber.
• Mature Size: 1.5m – 2.5m height (easily kept smaller with pruning).
• Flowering Season: Spring through Autumn (heavy bloomer).
• Fragrance: Intensely sweet and highly aromatic.