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Vine

Stephanotis

Stephanotis floribunda

Madagascar JasmineBridal WreathWaxflowerBridal Veil

Stephanotis is an elegant tropical vine with intensely fragrant, waxy white flowers. Popular in bridal bouquets, it symbolizes marital happiness, good luck, and the desire to travel together.

Plant Family

Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)

Blooming

Spring through fall (March-October) in ideal conditions

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Stephanotis flowers showing waxy white tubular blooms with five-lobed openings
Stephanotis flowers showing waxy white tubular blooms with five-lobed openings

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Marital happiness
Good luck in marriage
Desire to travel
Purity
Devotion
Elegance

Perfect For

WeddingsBridal showersAnniversariesRomantic occasionsNew beginnings

Color Meanings

White:Purity, marital bliss, new beginnings, and eternal love

Similar flowers: calla lilys and carnations also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Stephanotis is considered the quintessential bridal flower, symbolizing a happy marriage and good fortune. Its sweet fragrance and pure white color make it a favorite for wedding bouquets and arrangements. In Victorian flower language, it represented the desire to travel, making it perfect for honeymoon wishes.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 1-2 inches long (2.5-5 cm), tubular with 5-lobed opening
Plant Size: 10-20 feet long (3-6 meters) as climbing vine
Flower Shape: Tubular with flared 5-petaled opening, waxy texture

Natural Habitat

Native to: Madagascar, Marlagasy Republic
Habitat: Tropical and subtropical regions, cultivated as houseplant in temperate zones
Climate: Tropical, Subtropical

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Bright indirect light indoors, partial shade outdoors

Water

Consistent moisture during growing season, less in winter

Soil

Well-drained, Rich, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0), Organic matter-rich

Expert Growing Tips

1

Provide strong support for climbing growth

2

Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C)

3

High humidity essential for healthy growth

4

Pinch growing tips to encourage branching

5

Reduce watering in winter months

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Bridal bouquets and wedding arrangements
  • Indoor climbing plant with support
  • Greenhouse specimen
  • Outdoor climbing vine in warm climates
  • Fragrant garden feature

Traditional Uses

  • Traditional uses in Madagascar folk medicine
  • Caution: Plant contains milky sap that may cause skin irritation

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Stephanotis

what does stephanotis symbolize in weddings

Stephanotis symbolizes marital happiness, good luck in marriage, and the desire to travel together — making it a perfect choice for bridal bouquets and wedding ceremonies.

how do you care for stephanotis plants

Stephanotis needs bright indirect light, consistent moisture, high humidity, and temperatures between 65-75°F — provide strong support for its climbing growth habit.

why is stephanotis called bridal wreath

Stephanotis is called bridal wreath because of its pure white, fragrant flowers and traditional use in wedding bouquets and bridal arrangements.

when does stephanotis bloom

Stephanotis blooms from spring through fall (March to October) under ideal conditions — producing intensely fragrant white flowers throughout the growing season.

Available Colors

White

Quick Facts

Type:vine
Family:Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
Native to:Madagascar
Blooms:Spring through fall (March-October) in ideal conditions

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