Jasminum polyanthum (Pink Jasmine)

Pink Jasmine is one of the most powerfully fragrant vines you can grow, erupting in late winter to early spring with dense clusters of pink-budded, white-flowered blooms that perfume the entire garden. Native to China and Myanmar, this fast-growing twining vine reaches 15 to 20 feet when given a sturdy support, with fine-textured, pinnate foliage that stays semi-evergreen in mild coastal climates. It is the quintessential front-porch vine for Oregon's mild west-side winters.

Plant in full sun to part shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Water moderately and consistently during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Hardy to USDA zones 8 to 11, Pink Jasmine is right at home on the Oregon coast, where winters rarely dip below its tolerance threshold. Provide a trellis or arbor for the twining stems. After flowering in spring, prune back stems by one-third to control size and encourage dense new growth for next year's bloom. Fertilize lightly in spring.

In a container, Pink Jasmine makes a rewarding houseplant or covered-porch specimen that can be brought indoors if frost threatens. Its fragrance is genuinely remarkable, though sensitive individuals may want to avoid placing it in small, unventilated rooms. Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses per ASPCA.