Gelsemium sempervirens
An evergreen twiner
with small glossy leaves, it has scented yellow funnel shaped
flowers in spring to early summer (outside, under glass it
flowers in winter for around 3 months). It will reach 6M on a
warm sunny wall. Unless grown in sheltered situation in the south
and west of the UK it is likely to be disappointing outside and
would be better as a conservatory plant where its evergreen habit
and flowers scented of violets make it a winner.
Gelsemium grows best in slightly acid, moist and humus rich soils
as it's a wetland plant, like many climbers' cool roots and head
in the sun suit it well. Please be aware that all parts of
Gelsemium are highly poisonous and it is related to the Amazonian
plant called Strychnos toxifera better known as Curare!
The up side of which there are few pests that can eat it.
Came originally from the SE of the USA and central America and
arrived in the UK during the 1600's
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