Common Jasmine Jasminum officinale
ABOUT
Jasminum officinale, commonly known as common jasmine, is a perennial flowering plant that is widely admired for its delicate and highly fragrant flowers. The plant features dark green, glossy leaves that are pinnate, composed of opposite leaflets that provide a lush and vibrant backdrop to its blossoms. The common jasmine produces an abundance of white flowers, which are recognized by their tubular shape that flares into five or six lobed petals. These conspicuous, star-shaped flowers are a source of delight, typically blooming throughout the summer and into the fall, exuding a sweet and penetrating scent that is often associated with the warmest seasons of the year. The common jasmine can grow as a shrub or a climbing vine, often trained on trellises or along fences, where it showcases its full beauty. The lustrous aspect and deeply perfumed flowers make it a highly desirable plant for gardens and outdoor spaces, used for ornamental purposes or as a natural perfume source. The combination of its leafy green foliage and pure white blossoms creates a striking contrast, and it is often visited by bees and other pollinators drawn to its nectar-rich flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Oleaceae.
Synonyms
Common Jasmine, Poet's Jasmine, Summer Jasmine, White Jasmine, True Jasmine, Jessamine.
Common names
Jasminum affine, Jasminum officinale var. grandiflorum, Jasminum officinale f. affine, Jasminum officinale f. grandiflorum, Jasminum officinale var. affine.
ToxicityTo humans
Common jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in the perfume industry and for making tea. However, some people might experience an allergic reaction or dermatitis from handling the plant or its flowers. Ingesting large quantities of any plant may cause digestive discomfort or other nonspecific symptoms, so it is still advisable to avoid consuming parts of this plant in significant amounts.
To pets
Common jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is not typically listed as toxic to pets. It is considered to be non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in large quantities could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is still best to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants as a precaution.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
Spread
4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Jasminum officinale, commonly known as common jasmine, has beautiful white flowers that are highly appreciated for their aesthetic appeal in gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a pleasant and sweet fragrance that can perfume outdoor spaces and can be used to naturally scent indoor areas when used in floral arrangements.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Cultural Significance: Common jasmine has cultural importance in many societies, where it is used in ceremonies, perfumes, and as a symbol of love or respect.
- Beverage Flavoring: The flowers are sometimes used to flavor tea, imparting a delicate jasmine scent and taste to the beverage.
Medical Properties- Antidepressant: Jasminum officinale's fragrance has been said to help alleviate symptoms of depression.
- Antiseptic: The essential oil has antiseptic properties that may aid in preventing or treating infections.
- Antispasmodic: It may help to relieve spasms and cramps in the muscles.
- Aphrodisiac: Traditionally used to stimulate sexual desire and energy.
- Galactagogue: It has been used to enhance milk production in breastfeeding women.
- Sedative: It is believed to have calming effects on the nervous system, potentially aiding in sleep and reducing anxiety.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Jasminum officinale, commonly called jasmine, is often used in aromatherapy to promote a sense of relaxation and calm. The fragrance of jasmine flowers can help reduce stress and anxiety when inhaled.
- The essential oil extracted from jasmine flowers is sometimes used in the production of perfumes and body lotions due to its sweet and pleasant scent.
- The plant can be used in linen sachets; dried jasmine flowers can impart a refreshing fragrance to linens and clothing when placed in closets or drawers.
- Jasmine is incorporated in some tea blends, providing a subtle, sweet flavor. Dried jasmine flowers are often added to teas like green tea for a unique aroma and taste.
- In the culinary arts, jasmine flowers can be used to decorate cakes and desserts, adding an elegant and edible garnish.
- Jasmine flowers can be crystallized in sugar and used as decorative, sweet confections that can top various dishes or be enjoyed on their own.
- Horticulturally, jasmine is used as an ornamental plant to cover trellises and archways, creating scented, green spaces in gardens and public areas.
- Natural jasmine water, made from the infused petals, is sometimes used as a mild fragrance or flavoring agent in certain cuisines, especially in Middle Eastern desserts.
- Jasmine is sometimes included in potpourri mixtures, contributing its characteristic fragrance to the blend of dried flowers and spices.
- Fresh jasmine flowers are used in wedding ceremonies in some cultures as a symbol of purity and elegance, often included in bridal bouquets or decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCommon Jasmine is often placed in the home to promote positive energy, and its sweet fragrance can be used to create a calming and serene environment, which is in line with Feng Shui principles that aim to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCommon Jasmine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Jasmine is often associated with love and is frequently used in wedding bouquets and decorations to symbolize the deep affection between partners.
- Purity: The white flowers of Jasmine represent purity and innocence, making it a common choice in religious and spiritual ceremonies.
- Beauty: Its delicate blooms and sweet fragrance convey beauty, both physical and spiritual.
- Femininity: The soft and gentle nature of the jasmine flower is commonly linked to the feminine energy and is seen as a representation of the delicateness of womanhood.
- Sensuality: The intoxicating scent of Jasmine is also associated with sensuality and often used in perfumes to attract and allure.
- Hospitality: In some cultures, Jasmine is symbolic of hospitality and welcoming. Offering jasmine tea, for example, is a sign of goodwill to guests.
WaterCommon Jasmine, or poet's jasmine, prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might mean watering once or twice a week depending on environmental conditions. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water with about one gallon per plant, adjusting as necessary for rainfall and temperature. Reduce watering in the fall and further in winter when the plant is not growing actively. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
LightCommon Jasmine thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would ensure the plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day while providing some relief from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. East or west-facing locations can be ideal, offering morning or afternoon sun with some protection during the peak heat.
TemperatureCommon Jasmine can tolerate a wide temperature range but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures of around 20°F, but frost can damage the plant. The plant will thrive if nighttime temperatures are noticeably cooler than the daytime, but not colder than 50°F, which encourages flowering.
PruningCommon Jasmine should be pruned to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and promote more flowers. Prune right after flowering, typically in late summer or early fall, cutting back the stems that have just flowered. It is common to remove a third of the plant's volume but be careful not to cut into old wood that may not produce new shoots.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCommon Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) thrives in well-draining loamy soil amended with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. The best soil mix should consist of two parts loam, one part peat, and one part sand to ensure proper drainage. Common Jasmine prefers a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
RepottingCommon Jasmine should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best to repot the plant in spring just before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingCommon Jasmine flourishes in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%. It can tolerate lower humidity, but increased levels encourage better growth and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Common Jasmine near a sunny window with some shade.
Outdoor
Grow Common Jasmine in partial shade with support.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleCommon Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) begins its life as a seed, which, under suitable conditions, germinates and grows into a seedling. The seedling then develops into a vigorous, climbing perennial shrub. As it matures, it produces compound leaves with 5 to 9 leaflets. Once the plant reaches maturity, which can take a few years, it starts to produce fragrant white flowers from late spring to early autumn. After pollination, typically by insects, these flowers can develop into black berries. Over time, as a perennial, Jasminum officinale may go through cycles of growth and dormancy, often with a rest period in the colder months and rejuvenation in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Common jasmine, known scientifically as Jasminum officinale, can be propagated most effectively through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method, which is particularly popular, involves taking cuttings from the plant during the summer months when the current season's growth has started to mature but is not yet fully hardened. You typically cut a piece of the stem that is 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and has at least two leaf nodes. The bottom of the cutting should be snipped just below a node, and any flowers or flower buds should be removed. To encourage rooting, the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone before it is placed in a soil mix. Maintaining consistent moisture and warmth, the cuttings usually root in a few weeks, after which they can gradually be acclimatized to less controlled conditions before being planted out in their final location.
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