South Carolina State Flower – Yellow Jessamine

The South Carolina state flower is the yellow jessamine, also known as the Carolina jessamine, which is a beautiful and fragrant flower native to the United States. It is known for its vibrant yellow color and its sweet scent, which can be enjoyed in the springtime when it is in full bloom. This flower is a symbol of hospitality and joy for the people of South Carolina and is showcased in gardens and fields across the state. In this blog, we will discuss all the state flowers of SC

The Official State Flower of South Carolina

The state flower of South Carolina is the yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens). It was adopted as the official flower of the state of South Carolina in 1924, after a campaign by the South Carolina Federation of Women’s Clubs. The yellow jessamine, also known as Carolina jasmine, is a native of the southeastern United States and grows in many parts of South Carolina. It is a twining vine that can grow up to 30 feet and produces fragrant yellow blossoms in the spring.

Cultural Significance of Yellow Jessamine

The SC state flower has been a symbol of South Carolina since the 19th century, when the flower was featured prominently in the state’s seal. It is also a popular choice for spring flower delivery and landscaping in many parts of the state. Its sweet fragrance can be enjoyed in gardens and parks throughout the year. In addition, the flower has been featured in many works of art and literature. For example, Yellow Jessamine by Caitlin Starling (2020) is a Gothic-infused dark fantasy novella where the flower plays a central role in the story. The book weaves together themes of queer longing, revenge, and toxicity, using the plant’s mix of beauty and danger as a symbol for the story’s equally captivating and destructive forces.

Yellow Jessamine Flower Meaning

The yellow jessamine has come to symbolize the spirit of South Carolina, which is characterized by strength, beauty, and resilience. The flower stands for the state’s courage, dignity, and perseverance in the face of adversity and is a reminder of the importance of cherishing the natural beauty of the region. The yellow jessamine also symbolizes joy and optimism and is a reminder of the state’s commitment to the future.

Yellow Jessamine Flower Facts

• Yellow jessamine is an evergreen vine that produces clusters of fragrant, bright yellow flowers in the spring. 
• The flowers are about an inch long and have five petals. The leaves are dark green and glossy and can grow up to six inches in length. 
• Yellow jessamine is a hardy plant and can withstand both hot and cold temperatures.
• All parts of this plant—the flowers, leaves, and even roots—are poisonous. It contains alkaloids like gelsemine and gelsemicine, which can cause muscle weakness, convulsions, and even respiratory failure in some cases. Its nectar is toxic to children and honeybees, and the sap can irritate human skin.
• This plant is sometimes called the “mailbox plant” because people use it to cover mailbox posts.

Where to See Yellow Jessamine in South Carolina

If you want to see the Yellow Jessamine with your own eyes in its natural setting, there are a few great places across South Carolina. These areas feature the state flower and provide a nice outdoor experience as well.

Congaree National Park (Hopkins): This national park near Columbia is known for its lush floodplain forests. In spring, you can often find this vine climbing along the edges of the trails and adding pops of gold to the green landscape. You can combine your visit here with exploring nearby florists in Columbia, SC, so that you can take home seasonal arrangements.

Francis Marion National Forest (Huger): Just north of Charleston, this forest has lots of trails and spots where yellow jessamine grows. You can see it climbing trees and adding color to the woods.

Charleston & Lowcountry Region: Yellow Jessamine grows well here thanks to the mild coastal climate. You can find it easily along fences, in yards, and in the wild. Its yellow blooms are most noticeable in spring.

Upstate South Carolina: In the hills and woods of the Upstate, yellow Jessamine pops up all over. Take a walk on state park trails or along country roads in spring, and you will surely see them in bloom. If you’re near Greenville, don’t miss checking out florists in Greenville, SC, for fresh-cut seasonal flowers.

Order from SnapBlooms now to get your SC state flower, the yellow jessamine, delivered directly to your home! Whether you’re looking for summer flower delivery to send a gift, SnapBlooms connects you with trusted online florist services across the state. Add a touch of Southern charm to your home today with the best Flower Delivery in South Carolina!

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Also Read: USA State Flower