Question
Hi from Daphne Alabama!  We have sudo zen garden back yard with a 5' tall wire fence. Not chain link, but square panelled and each panel has 2x8x16' wood board on top.  We are wanting to grow Asian/confederate/or something on the fence to give it a natural look that will stay green most, if not all year long and give privacy and not too difficult to trim.  Fence length is 100 feet. Early morning sun and late afernoon filtered sun.  Any suggestions on what plant? Thanks a million! Linda

Answer
It sounds like you already know the answer.

Daphne Alabama is in the southern part of Alabama so Confederate Jasmine should do well. I wouldn't describe it as a "natural looking vine" though. And if it freezes, it will burn in the frost and could be completely killed in a hard freeze for a week or so. However, its very fragrant and deep green color make it a nice choice.

A more vigorous and looser looking vine would be Carolina Jessamine. It is hardy even in a bad freeze. But it is aggressive and fast. You need to keep it out of other plants and off the house. It also flowers longer than most vines. It attracts a lot of bees, etc. so don't plant near a patio or eating area.

Asiatic jasmine is also marginal in colder parts of Alabama and is not known for its climbing but you may like its uniformity. Its best for low masses under other plants especially large trees. It will maintain a nice thick layer of 6" or so.

You might also consider Clematis Armandii which is evergreen. It is delicate but awesome if it gets a good start and doesn't get broken. One of the most fragrant flowers ever! I'm not sure how it will hold up so far south. I doubt if it tolerates any salt. Check your local nursery to see what they say about this one in your area...might be too far south. Also, don't put this vine where it will be hit repeatedly or moved(like on a gate). It breaks easily and then it dies from the break up.


Five Leaf Akebia vine might be the best choice for you if you want something with a little more character, a little more hardy and less aggressive with a loose natural look. I love to mix this vine with others for flowering at different seasons.

Best of Luck

Sean J Murphy, LA,ISA, LEED AP
Please check out my blogs and articles on landscape topics like this on my websites.
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