Arabian Jasmine Jasminum sambac
ABOUT
Jasminum sambac, commonly known as Arabian jasmine, is a species of jasmine native to a small region in the eastern Himalayas in Bhutan and neighboring India. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its attractive and sweetly fragrant flowers. The flowers are white, with a tubular base and a flared, multi-lobed corolla. They can bloom singularly or in clusters, unfolding from pink-tinged buds. This evergreen shrub features shiny dark green leaves which are ovate or lanceolate in shape and can be arranged oppositely or alternately on the stem. Arabian jasmine is often grown in pots or baskets in climates with colder winters, and its flowers are commonly used in fragrances, teas, and traditional ceremonies.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Oleaceae.
Synonyms
Arabian Jasmine, Sambac Jasmine, Philippine Jasmine, Asian Jasmine, Sacred Jasmine, Belle of India, Grand Duke of Tuscany, Maid of Orleans.
Common names
Jasminum fragrans, Nyctanthes sambac, Mogorium sambac, Jasminum blancoi, Jasminum bicorollatum.
ToxicityTo humans
Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Most people can handle and enjoy the plant and its fragrant flowers without concern for poisoning. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from Arabian Jasmine for humans, as it is not known to contain any components that are harmful when ingested in normal quantities typically associated with garden plants.
To pets
Arabian Jasmine is also not known to be toxic to pets. It does not appear on the list of plants commonly recognized as harmful to dogs, cats, or other household animals. Therefore, if a pet were to ingest parts of an Arabian Jasmine plant, it is unlikely to suffer from poisoning. However, it's always best to keep an eye on your pets to prevent them from eating plants, as individual animals might have unique sensitivities or allergic reactions. If any unusual symptoms do occur after ingestion, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Southeast Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Fragrant Flowers: Jasminum sambac, commonly known as Arabian Jasmine, produces highly fragrant flowers, which are widely used in perfumes and jasmine tea.
- Ornamental Use: The plant is often grown for its attractive, white flowers and shiny, green leaves, making it a popular ornamental in gardens and landscapes.
- Cultural Significance: Arabian Jasmine holds great cultural importance in several countries and is the national flower of the Philippines, where it is known as Sampaguita.
- Religious Use: The flowers are used in religious ceremonies, offerings, and for decorating gods in parts of South and Southeast Asia.
- Garden Habitat: The plant provides habitat and nectar for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and birds, thus supporting biodiversity.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant Activity: Jasminum sambac extracts have shown potential antioxidant properties, which may help in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
- Antibacterial Effects: The plant has been traditionally used for its antibacterial properties, and some studies suggest that it may be effective against certain bacterial strains.
- Anti-inflammatory: Extracts from Jasminum sambac may possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could be useful in the treatment of some inflammatory conditions.
- Anxiolytic and Sedative: The plant's fragrance is reported to have calming effects, potentially acting as a natural anxiolytic and sedative.
- Wound Healing: There is some traditional use of Jasminum sambac in promoting wound healing, although scientific evidence for this effect is limited.
- Antispasmodic: Jasminum sambac is sometimes used in traditional medicine for its antispasmodic effects, which may help in relieving muscle spasms or cramps.
- Analgesic Properties: The plant may have mild pain-relieving effects, which has been a part of its traditional medicinal use.
- Gastroprotective Effects: Some traditional use of Jasminum sambac suggests it could help in protecting the gastrointestinal tract and alleviate certain digestive issues.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Jasmine tea: Jasmine sambac flowers are often used to flavor tea, especially in China, where they may be combined with green or white tea leaves to create jasmine tea that is highly appreciated for its aroma.
- Perfumery: The sweet fragrance of Arabian jasmine is extracted as an essential oil and used as a component in perfumes, scented oils, and aromatherapy products.
- Cultural ceremonies: In some cultures, particularly in Southeast Asia, the flowers of Arabian jasmine are used in wedding ceremonies and religious offerings as symbols of purity, love, and good fortune.
- Lei making: In Hawaii, Arabian jasmine, also called pikake, is a popular flower for making leis due to its fragrance and delicate white petals.
- Culinary uses: The flowers of Arabian jasmine are sometimes used to flavor desserts, syrups, and sweets, adding a floral note to various dishes.
- Gardening: The Arabian jasmine plant is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, valued for its evergreen foliage and profuse, fragrant blooms.
- Textiles: The scent of Arabian jasmine flowers is sometimes used to scent textiles, such as linens and clothing, to impart a pleasant fragrance.
- Symbolism: Arabian jasmine can be given as a gift to represent amiability, conveying a sense of friendly affection and warmth.
- Beverage flavoring: Arabian jasmine flowers may be used to infuse drinking water, imparting a subtle floral flavor and aroma to refreshments.
- Floral baths: Petals of Arabian jasmine are sometimes sprinkled into bathwater for a luxurious, aromatic bathing experience.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiArabian Jasmine, known for its sweet fragrance, is considered in Feng Shui to purify and move Qi, thereby fostering positive energy and harmony. It can be placed in areas of the house where you want to promote a soothing and peaceful atmosphere, such as the bedroom or living room.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityArabian Jasmine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Affection: Jasminum sambac, commonly known as Arabian Jasmine, is widely regarded as a symbol of love and affection due to its sweet fragrance which is thought to entice and captivate the senses.
- Purity: Arabian Jasmine is often associated with purity and innocence, especially in cultures where it is used in weddings and religious ceremonies.
- Beauty: The delicate white flowers of the Arabian Jasmine represent beauty and femininity, making it a popular choice in beauty rituals and as a natural adornment.
- Good Luck: In some traditions, Arabian Jasmine is believed to bring good luck and is therefore often used in garlands and offerings.
- Spirituality: The sweet scent of Arabian Jasmine is sometimes used in spiritual practices to promote a sense of calm and spiritual well-being.
WaterArabian Jasmine prefers consistently moist soil, so it is vital to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week. The amount of water will vary with the size of the plant and the climate, but generally, around 16 ounces per week for small plants should suffice. During the hot summer months, watering frequency should increase to possibly twice a week. It is important to ensure that the pot has good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. In the winter, water less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
LightArabian Jasmine thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and should be placed in a location where it receives at least a few hours of direct sunlight daily, preferably in the morning. Harsh afternoon sun can be damaging, so it is best to provide some shade during these hours if possible. A spot near an east or south-facing window makes an ideal location for the Arabian Jasmine to get the light it needs without being scorched by the most intense sunlight of the day.
TemperatureArabian Jasmine enjoys warm conditions and performs best in temperatures ranging between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but growth will be stunted, and flowering may not occur. Ideally, temperatures should be kept as steady as possible, avoiding drafts and sudden temperature changes to maintain healthy growth and blossom production.
PruningPrune the Arabian Jasmine to maintain its shape and encourage fuller, bushier growth. Pruning is best done after the blooming cycle, usually in late winter or early spring, before the new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased parts, and thin out overcrowded areas to allow light and air to reach the inner branches. Cutting back long shoots will promote branching, which can result in more flowers. Pruning can be performed annually or biannually, depending on the plant's vigor and size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilArabian Jasmine prefers moderately fertile, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A best soil mix can be created with one part garden soil, one part peat moss or coco coir, and one part perlite to ensure good drainage.
RepottingArabian Jasmine should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. It's best to repot in spring before the new growth starts.
Humidity & MistingArabian Jasmine thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. It benefits from daily misting or using a humidity tray.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Arabian Jasmine, bright indirect light and consistent warmth are key indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Arabian Jasmine in partial sun with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleArabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, ideally in warm, well-drained soil, where the taproot establishes itself and a shoot emerges above the soil. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it develops a lush foliage of dark green leaves and a branching structure, which can be encouraged by pruning to create a bushier form or allow for climbing habits. The transition to the flowering stage is marked by the emergence of fragrant white blossoms, typically during the summer months, which are often used in perfumes and teas. After pollination, which is primarily carried out by insects such as bees, the plant may produce small black berries, containing seeds that can disseminate to propagate new plants. Throughout its life, Arabian Jasmine requires ample sunlight, consistent moisture, and may need protection from colder temperatures. With proper care, this perennial can live for many years, continually producing its distinctive fragrant flowers annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Arabian Jasmine, also known as Jasminum sambac, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique involves taking a cutting from a mature plant during the active growing season, typically in late spring or early summer. The ideal cutting should be about 4 to 6 inches long and have several sets of leaves. The bottom set of leaves should be removed, and the cut end of the stem can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist but not overly wet, and placed in indirect sunlight until roots have developed and new growth appears, which typically takes several weeks to a couple of months. Once established, the new plant can be transitioned to a more permanent location.
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