How to Grow Stephanotis
Stephanotis floribunda
Stephanotis is a tropical evergreen climber prized for its intensely fragrant, waxy white flowers — a classic for weddings and gifts. It needs bright indirect light, consistent warmth (never below 13°C), and high humidity. Once in bud, never move it — even a small shift can trigger bud drop. Water moderately in growth, reduce in winter, and feed fortnightly in spring and summer. It is safe for cats and dogs.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser from spring through summer. Reduce to once a month in autumn and stop feeding entirely in winter.
Watch For
- Mealybug
- Scale insects
- Spider mites
- Bud drop (caused by moving the plant or fluctuating temperatures)
- Root rot from overwatering
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light
Place near a bright window but out of direct sun, which scorches the waxy leaves. An east- or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Too little light and the plant will not flower.
Watering
Moderate; let top centimetre dry between waterings
Water thoroughly in spring and summer, allowing the top centimetre of compost to dry out before watering again. Reduce watering in autumn and keep barely moist in winter. Never let the plant sit in water.
Fertilizing
Fortnightly balanced feed in spring and summer
Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks from late spring through summer. Cut back to monthly in autumn and stop completely in winter.
Pruning
Trim after flowering; train stems onto support
Cut back long or straggly stems after the main flush of flowers to maintain shape and encourage the following season's buds. Tie new growth onto a hoop or trellis as it develops.
Humidity
Prefers high humidity; avoid draughts
Mist the leaves occasionally or stand the pot on a pebble tray with water, especially in winter when central heating dries the air. Keep away from cold draughts and temperature fluctuations, which trigger bud drop.
