Stephanotis Flowers
Stephanotis (often sold as Madagascar jasmine) is an evergreen twining vine prized for its waxy, star-shaped white flowers and rich perfume. A cherished choice for bridal bouquets, it represents marital happiness and fidelity. It thrives with bright, gentle light, warm temperatures, and high humidity.
Occasions & recipients - Find flowers by occasion
Best occasions
- Weddings
- Engagements
- Anniversaries
- Bridal showers
- Vow renewals
- Housewarming
Who to Give to
- Spouse/partner
- Newlyweds or engaged couple
- Bride/bridal party
- Close family
- Close friend
Card Message Ideas
Presentation Etiquette
Ideal for wedding work: blooms are often wired individually for boutonnieres and bouquets—keep cool and hydrated until use. Present early on the event day or the afternoon prior. Include a note explaining their meaning (marital happiness). Be mindful of recipients with fragrance sensitivities and households with pets or small children.
Ideal Delivery Time
Early morning on the wedding day or the afternoon before for cut work; for potted gifts, deliver in spring–summer during active growth and avoid temperature extremes.
At a glance
Key details
Quick reference for key details choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients. Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.
Distribution
Native to Madagascar; widely cultivated in tropical/subtropical regions and grown as a greenhouse or houseplant in temperate climates worldwide.
Conservation
Native habitats in Madagascar face ongoing deforestation; choose nursery-propagated stock and avoid wild-collected material. Not considered threatened in cultivation.
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested by pets and humans; milky latex sap can irritate skin and eyes. Ingestion may cause nausea, vomiting, and drooling—keep away from children, cats, and dogs; wear gloves when pruning.
Allergenicity
Highly fragrant blooms; generally low airborne pollen, but scent may trigger headaches or asthma in sensitive individuals. Sap may cause contact dermatitis.
Family: Apocynaceae (dogbane); Genus: Stephanotis; Species commonly used: Stephanotis floribunda (Madagascar jasmine)
Meaning, symbolism & taboos
A classic wedding flower symbolizing marital happiness, fidelity, and good fortune. The pristine, star-shaped white blooms convey purity, grace, and blessings for a harmonious home and a hopeful new beginning.
Symbolizes
- Marital happiness
- Fidelity
- Good fortune
- Purity
- New beginnings
- Prosperity
Color taboos
- All-white arrangements can signify mourning in parts of East Asia—avoid for celebratory gifts there
- Strongly scented white flowers may be inappropriate in hospitals or scent-free workplaces
- Avoid white-and-red pairings in some cultures where that combo implies mourning
Growing & tools
Care & gear
Growing tips
Evergreen twining vine best in bright, filtered light (no harsh midday sun). Keep warm (65–80°F/18–27°C) with a cooler, bright winter rest (55–60°F/13–16°C) to set buds. Provide high humidity (50–60%+); water thoroughly, then let the top inch of soil dry. Use a rich, airy, slightly acidic mix (pH 5.5–6.5). Feed a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks in spring–summer, sparingly in winter. Train on a trellis and prune lightly after flowering. Avoid drafts and don’t move the plant once buds form (prevents bud drop). Common issues: bud drop from low light, temperature swings, overwatering, or dry air; pests include mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings; repot in spring every 2–3 years.
Recommended tools
- Trellis or hoop support
- Soft plant ties
- Bypass pruners
- Humidity tray or misting bottle
- Well-draining acidic potting mix
- Balanced liquid fertilizer