Bringing a Madagascar jasmine (also known by its botanical name, Stephanotis floribunda) into your home is a delightful way to enjoy glossy leaves and clusters of sweet-smelling white flowers. But as lush as this houseplant can be, knowing how to water Stephanotis floribunda is key to its healthy growth. Overwatering, underwatering, spraying, humidity—these words can feel overwhelming to new plant parents. Don’t worry! This guide will walk you through, step by step, making sure your Madagascar jasmine gets just the right amount of care.
How Often Should I Water My Madagascar Jasmine?
The most important rule: Always check the soil before watering. Stephanotis floribunda likes its soil slightly moist, but never soggy. As a rule of thumb, water your Madagascar jasmine when the top inch (about 2-3 cm) of soil feels dry to the touch.
- In spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing, you’ll usually water once a week.
- In autumn and winter, the plant’s growth slows down, so you may only need to water every 10–14 days.
Each home is different—if your apartment is warm and dry, you might water a bit more often, but always use your finger to test the soil first.
How Much Water Does Stephanotis floribunda Need?
Stephanotis floribunda likes a thorough drink when you water it. Gently pour water until you see a little bit coming out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots have access to water, but don’t drown in it.
Important tip:
Never let the pot sit in leftover water! After watering, empty the saucer or outer pot so the roots don’t stay too wet (which can cause root rot).
Should I Mist or Spray Madagascar Jasmine?
Humidity is your friend! Madagascar jasmine enjoys higher humidity, similar to what it has in its tropical home. But spraying or misting can be a mixed bag:
- Light misting once or twice a week in warm months is helpful, especially if your home is dry.
- Do it in the morning so leaves dry before nighttime.
- Avoid getting water on the flowers themselves—they can brown or spoil.
Or, even better: Place your pot on a shallow tray filled with pebbles and a little water. As the water evaporates, it boosts humidity around your Stephanotis.
What Are the Humidity Needs of Madagascar Jasmine?
Your Stephanotis floribunda will be happiest with humidity levels around 50–60% or higher. If your apartment is dry, especially in winter with central heating, you might use a small humidifier nearby or group several plants together to raise moisture in the air.
Is Madagascar Jasmine Sensitive to Overwatering or Drought?
Here’s the honest truth: Overwatering is the #1 killer of Madagascar jasmine! Roots can rot very quickly if the soil stays soggy. While it’s not an extremely drought-tolerant plant, it can handle the soil getting slightly dry much better than staying overly wet.
Signs of overwatering:
Yellowing leaves, wilting (surprisingly!), and mushy stems.
Signs of drought:
Leaves curl, drop, or turn brown at the tips. Luckily, most plants recover if you catch it early.
Should I Bottom-Water or Water from the Top?
Either method works, as long as you’re careful:
1. Top watering: Pour water onto the soil surface and wait until any excess runs out the bottom.
2. Bottom watering: Place your pot in a container of water, letting the soil draw moisture up from below for 15–20 minutes, then remove and let drain.
Choose bottom watering if you tend to get water on the leaves or are dealing with dense foliage.
What To Do with Excess Water After Watering?
Always pour out any water left in the saucer or cachepot after about 10–15 minutes. Keeping roots in standing water causes rot and fungus.
Essential Tips for Watering Stephanotis floribunda
- Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Use room-temperature water—cold water can shock the roots.
- Increase humidity with misting, grouping plants, or a pebble tray.
- Never let roots sit in water.
- Reduce watering in winter.
Summary: Careful Watering Makes Madagascar Jasmine Thrive
In summary, watering Madagascar jasmine (Stephanotis floribunda) is about balance: moist soil, generous humidity, but never swampy roots. Start with checking the soil, water thoroughly, but let extra water drain away. If you make a mistake, don’t worry—plants forgive us more often than we think. With these simple habits, your Madagascar jasmine will reward you with healthy leaves and the most beautiful, fragrant blooms.
