Stephanotis

Stephanotis

Stephanotis are popular for their glossy green leaves and highly scented, white, star-shaped flowers. They make an attractive feature plant and are especially prized for their beautiful fragrance. With the right conditions, they can flower repeatedly during the warmer months.

Where to position

Choose a bright position with plenty of indirect light. Stephanotis can tolerate some gentle morning or evening sunlight, but avoid strong direct sunlight through glass, which can scorch the leaves.

Good light is particularly important for encouraging flowering.

Watering

• Keep the compost evenly moist during the growing season, but avoid allowing the plant to sit in water.
• Check the top of the compost before watering.
• Water when the surface feels slightly dry.
• Allow excess water to drain away.
• Reduce watering during autumn and winter, when growth naturally slows.

Top watering tip: Stephanotis dislikes constantly wet compost. Good drainage is essential to help prevent root problems.

Temperature & humidity

Stephanotis enjoys warm, humid conditions and does best when temperatures remain fairly consistent.

Keep it away from cold draughts, radiators and sudden changes in temperature. Higher humidity can help keep the foliage healthy, particularly in centrally heated homes.

Feeding & repotting

Feed every few weeks during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant feed or a feed designed for flowering plants.

Repot in spring when the roots become crowded, using a good-quality, free-draining houseplant compost. Stephanotis can also benefit from a support or trellis for its twining stems.

Common problems

Yellowing leaves
Often caused by overwatering, poor drainage or sudden changes in conditions. Check the compost before watering again.

Brown or crispy leaf edges
Can be caused by dry air, underwatering or too much direct sunlight.

Flowers not appearing
The plant may need more light, warmer conditions or a consistent watering and feeding routine. Stephanotis may also take time to settle after being moved.

Bud drop
Flower buds can drop if the plant experiences sudden changes in temperature, watering or light. Avoid moving the plant once buds have formed if possible.

Drooping or curling leaves
Check the compost and surrounding conditions. Underwatering, cold temperatures or root problems can all cause the foliage to wilt.

Top tips

• Give it plenty of bright, indirect light to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
• Keep conditions consistent: Stephanotis doesn't enjoy sudden changes in temperature or position.
• Support the stems: Provide a trellis or support for the twining growth.
• Keep humidity up: This can help maintain healthy, glossy foliage.
• Enjoy the fragrance: The white flowers are strongly scented, particularly when the plant is in bloom.
• Avoid overwatering: Let the surface of the compost dry slightly before watering again.

Pet & child safety

Stephanotis is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, but it is still best to keep houseplants away from pets and young children to prevent chewing or ingestion.