Plant Profile: Gelsemium rankinii

Swamp Jasmine is a climbing or trailing woody vine indigenous to the southern United States. It thrives in the damp environments of forests and natural landscapes, particularly in the swamps along the Black and Waccamaw rivers, and is frequently used in landscaping. This evergreen plant features simple, opposite leaves with smooth edges. Its yellow, funnel-shaped flowers, which appear in both spring and fall, have five lobes and lack fragrance. The fruit produced is a slender, flattened capsule.

This species prefers conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade and requires rich, acidic soil that is consistently moist to wet. It not only enhances wildlife habitats but is also resistant to deer damage. For optimal growth, it is best to train this vine on a trellis or fence while ensuring the soil remains evenly moist. Additionally, it can tolerate occasional flooding.

It is important to note that the flowers, leaves, and roots of Swamp Jasmine are toxic, and the plant is designated as a species of Special Concern in North Carolina.