SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Parsonsia heterophylla

Parsonsia Heterophylla

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ON THIS PLANT

Parsonsia heterophylla, commonly called New Zealand jasmine or kaihua, is a climbing plant endemic to New Zealand. It was first described by Alan Cunningham in 1839.

A note from PlantMom

New Zealand jasmine is resistant to disease and generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, the plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish flowering. New Zealand jasmine is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not need extensive gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Parsonsia Heterophylla.

Light

New Zealand jasmine thrives naturally in habitats like forest undergrowth or stony places, exposed to a comfortable degree of shade. While it favors semi-sunny conditions, it can also adapt to either full sunlight or complete shade, reflecting its adaptable and resilient characteristics.

Water

New Zealand jasmine thrives in conditions where it receives consistent moisture, reflecting the rainfall of its native habitat. Although it has a moderate tolerance for drought, it should be watered every three weeks to stay healthy. As an outdoor climbing plant, applying mulch is advantageous during its active growing season, as it helps retain soil moisture.

Temperature

New Zealand jasmine demonstrates a strong capability to adapt to temperature changes, showing resistance to both higher temperatures and significant temperature fluctuations. During hot weather, it's crucial to focus on ensuring proper watering and offering suitable shading to avoid sun scorching. Nevertheless, New Zealand jasmine's ability to tolerate low temperatures is somewhat weak. It can endure mildly cold conditions, but severely cold climates might result in frost injury.

Fertilizer

The correct timing for fertilizing New Zealand jasmine is essential. Apply fertilizer starting in the early spring and continue on a monthly basis until the beginning of summer. Fertilizer assists in creating beautiful flowers and supplies energy during both the dormant and active stages of growth.

Pruning

New Zealand jasmine is a vigorous climbing plant with glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. To keep it healthy and looking its best, prune it in early spring. This will not only promote dense growth but also remove dead stems and maintain good air circulation. Proper pruning prevents the plant from becoming leggy, encourages more flowering, and contributes to its overall health.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Parsonsia
Family
Apocynaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
10.06 m
Mature Spread
91 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Forest Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White, Cream
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 0.51 cm
Bloom Time
Winter
Planting Time
Autumn
Harvest Time
Spring
Native Area
New Zealand
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