Evening Trumpetflower (Carolina Jessamine) Gelsemium sempervirens is an evergreen, twining, perennial vine that occurs naturally in the canopies of pine forests and in abandoned fields. Attractive landscaping features are its glossy evergreen leaves and fragrant, yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers that may bloom as early as December, but usually January to May. Evening Trumpetflower thrives in moist, well-drained soils and blooms best in full sun, but this species tolerates a wide variety of soil types and pH. It can be used in the landscape as a ground cover or allowed to climb to form a screen or to cover arbors and fences.
Be aware that the flowers, leaves, and roots are poisonous and toxic to livestock and humans if enough of the plant is consumed; the flower’s nectar is toxic to honeybees, and the honey made from this nectar may be toxic to humans.