Stephanotis needs a cool, dry rest in winter, but the sources read give no exact temperature. NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox says that over winter a cool, sunny, dry spot lets the plant rest until outdoor temperatures rise, and that in cool conditions it should be watered very infrequently. The RHS plant details says the minimum temperature is 10 to 15°C and to water sparingly in winter.
What the sources say
| Topic | NC State | RHS |
|---|---|---|
| Where | A cool, sunny, dry spot to rest | Full light, shade from hot sun |
| Water | Very infrequently in cool conditions | Sparingly in winter |
| Temperature | Bring in before it approaches 39°F; best 68 to 90°F while growing | Minimum 10 to 15°C |
| Growth | Slows if the home is cool | Not covered |
Reading the two together
The 10 to 15°C RHS figure is a minimum, not a target, so a cold windowsill at night is a risk. NC State’s cool, dry rest and the RHS advice to water sparingly agree on the pattern: less water, no pushing growth, and a bright spot. Neither gives a winter rest temperature or a number of weeks, so this page does not invent one.
Moving the plant in
For the move indoors before cold nights, see Bringing Fragrant Plants Indoors Before Frost. The full care outline is in Stephanotis Indoor Care.
What the sources do not cover
They do not say how long the rest should last, whether to stop feeding entirely (the RHS says to feed while growing), or what humidity to give in winter.
Frequently asked questions
Should I water stephanotis in winter?
Sparingly, according to the RHS, and very infrequently in cool conditions according to NC State.
What is the minimum temperature?
The RHS says 10 to 15°C.
Does stephanotis need a rest?
NC State recommends a cool, sunny, dry spot over winter so the plant can rest.
Sources read for this page
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page gives general guidance and cannot diagnose a plant from a description; see the Disclaimer.
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