Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) Helia

Although star jasmine is often used as a climber, it also makes a wonderful groundcover. In late spring and early summer, especially, it is covered with white star-shaped flowers that have a heady fragrance. Even when not in flower, the glossy, dark green leaves are still beautiful.

If you’d like to use it as a groundcover, you don’t need to buy the usually more expensive taller plants; smaller ones will work perfectly. Space star jasmines about 40cm apart in well-prepared, compost-rich soil. Trim off the long shoots regularly to encourage the plant to form a dense groundcover, but don’t do this just before the flowering season. The plant can also be cut back after it has bloomed to achieve a uniform appearance. Once the plant is established, it needs less water. Plant guide • Shade to sun • Moderately frost-hardy • Average water needs • About 30cm high as a groundcover