Matt's 9b field note
“Sambac from Monrovia — 'my favorite jasmine.'”
Background
A Monrovia-bred selection of Jasminum sambac (Arabian jasmine), the tropical Asian species behind jasmine tea and Hawaiian pikake. 'Summer Soul' was selected to unite a compact habit with heavy, extremely fragrant double blooms and strong heat and humidity tolerance.
Distinguishing traits
Evergreen shrub 6-8 ft tall and 3-4 ft wide with a spreading, semi-vining habit (tie long stems to a small trellis). Extremely fragrant, creamy-white, fully double flowers bloom through summer and can bloom nearly year-round in frost-free areas. Glossy deep-green foliage.
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- n/a — ornamental
- Cold hardiness
- Zone 9-11; hardy to roughly 20-25°F. Brief 9b freezes are tolerated; protect from hard frosts or grow in a warm microclimate/container.
- Heat tolerance
- Bred for heat and humidity; outstanding heat tolerance. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot, dry inland areas (afternoon shade in Queen Creek summers).
- Water
- Average to moist; water deeply and regularly in the first season, then keep evenly moist. Reduce watering in winter.
- Soil
- Enriched, well-drained soil; feed with acid fertilizer in early spring.
- Sun exposure
- Full sun to partial shade; prune after flowering to shape.
Where to buy
- Monrovia
- Armstrong Garden Centers
- Green Acres Nursery & Supply