Stephanotis ( Stephanotis floribunda ) is one of 13 members of a genus that is part of the dogbane or Apocynaceae family , related to uncouth milkweed and butterfly stroke dope . It is an evergreen , vining plant , that can grow to 25 feet tall . Stephanotis is native to Madagascar and noted for its waxy , jasmine - corresponding , white blossom and sweet fragrance . The blossom are tubular , opening out to five distinct lobes and the leaves are glowering greenish and glossy . The industrial plant has several symbolical and ethnical substance .
The Language of Flowers
The language of flowers , a custom that assigns specific signification or sentiments to various flowers , had its origins century ago in the Middle and Far East . It reached its apogee during the reign of Queen Victoria , who was smitten by the tradition . In the language of flowers , stephanotis signifies " married bliss . "
Names and Name Origins
The word " stephanotis " fare originally from two Grecian words , " stephanos " , meaning " crown . " and " Otoe " , meaning " ear " . According to the Missouri Botanical Garden ’s Kemper Center for Home Gardening , the tubular appearance of the flower ’s base suggest an pinna duct that opens to five crown - same lobes . The species ' common name include " spousal veil , " " Madagascar jasmine , " " wax bloom , " " Hawaiian wedding ceremony blossom " and " pua male person " ( Hawaiian ) .
Species Confusion
The common name , " Madagascar jasmine " is confusing , as Stephanotis floribunda is not related to true jasmine ( Jasminum officinale ) , which is a member of the olive or Olaceae kinsperson . The mix-up originate because the appearance and scents of stephanotis and unfeigned jasmine are exchangeable enough to have given rise to stephanotis ' common name .
Bridal Bouquets
Because of its import in the " language of flowers , " its fragrance and its white flowers , stephanotis is a vernacular component of bridal bouquets . The flowers are also sometimes used for the boutonnieres worn by stableboy and groomsmen .
Cultural Requirements
Stephanotis is a tropical works but it can be grown indoors if certain precondition are met . For best flowering , it should be kept free of drafts in a location that persist at about 70 degrees F during the day and about 55 degrees F at nighttime . comparatively gamey humidness – between 40 and 80 percent is ideal , as is bright light and well - drained potting premix . Like many potted tropicals , stephanotis needs frequent feeding , with all - design flora solid food thin to half strength and administered about once a calendar month . Because of its recollective stems , stephanotis makes a good subject for either give ear baskets or trellises .
