Common Jasmine Jasminum officinale f. affine
ABOUT
Commonly known as jasmine, this plant is an alluring, climbing perennial adorned with dark green pinnate leaves which are composed of oval-shaped leaflets that are shiny and smooth. The jasmine blooms in the warmer months, presenting highly fragrant white flowers that typically have five petals each and a slightly fuzzy texture. These star-shaped flowers emerge in clusters, lending a lush and romantic aspect to the plant. The jasmine is a favorite in gardens and landscapes for its intoxicating scent and the elegant appearance of its delicate white flowers, which stand out against the glossy green foliage. The vine-like growth of jasmine enables it to adorn trellises, walls, and other structures, often used as a decorative element in outdoor spaces. The plant's overall beauty is enhanced by its tendency to attract butterflies and other pollinators, which adds movement and life to its display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Oleaceae
Synonyms
Poet's Jasmine, Common Jasmine
Common names
Jasminum affine, Jasminum officinale var. affine.
ToxicityTo humans
Common jasmine (Jasminum officinale f. affine) is not known to be toxic to humans. This plant is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers and is not typically associated with toxicity when touched or ingested. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions are possible, and it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting plant material that is not known to be edible. There is no significant data indicating typical symptoms of poisoning because it is not considered poisonous to humans.
To pets
Common jasmine (Jasminum officinale f. affine) is also generally not considered toxic to pets. It is unlikely to cause serious harm if pets ingest parts of this plant. However, gastrointestinal upset could occur if a pet ingests a large amount of plant material, as with any non-food item. Symptoms may include mild vomiting or diarrhea, but serious toxic effects are not commonly reported for this type of jasmine. If a pet exhibits signs of distress after ingesting any plant material, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
10-12 feet (3-3.6 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Caucasus Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Jasminum officinale, commonly known as common jasmine, is prized for its delicate white blossoms and lush foliage, enhancing garden beauty.
- Fragrance: Common jasmine is well-known for its sweet, pervasive scent, which is often used in perfumes and fragranced products.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers provide nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Versatility in landscaping: It can be used as a climbing vine, ground cover, or shrub in a variety of garden settings.
- Shade provision: When grown as a vine on trellises, common jasmine can provide shade and reduce local ambient temperatures.
- Cultural significance: Common jasmine has symbolic meanings in various cultures and is often associated with love, purity, and modesty.
- Mood enhancement: The fragrance and visual appeal of jasmine flowers can contribute to a calming atmosphere and improved well-being.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: May help relieve spasm of voluntary and involuntary muscles.
- Antiseptic: Could be used to prevent the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.
- Aphrodisiac: Traditionally used to stimulate sexual desire.
- Carminative: Possible use in relieving flatulence or gas.
- Sedative: May be used to induce sedation or help in reducing irritability and excitement.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Jasmine is often used in perfumery and aromatherapy due to its strong yet sweet, pleasing and romantic fragrance.
- In some cultures, jasmine flowers are used for making tea, which is believed to offer relaxing properties.
- Jasmine is used in sachets and potpourris; it has a long-lasting fragrance that can freshen up clothes and drawers.
- It is often used in religious ceremonies and festivals in some parts of the world, such as in Hindu and Muslim weddings.
- The flowers are sometimes used for garlands and to decorate hair, especially in South Asia, adding a fragrant aesthetic to personal adornment.
- Jasmine can be used for making floral-scented waters and natural room fresheners, providing a chemical-free way to scent the environment.
- It's used in gourmet culinary dishes and desserts, especially in Middle Eastern cuisine, to add a delicate, floral hint to food.
- The flowers can be embedded in candles to create jasmine-scented candles that release the fragrance as they burn.
- Artisans may use the scent of jasmine in the crafting of natural soaps and bath products for a luxurious cleansing experience.
- Jasmine is a popular motif in art and literature, symbolizing love, beauty, and often associating with the exotic and the romantic.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCommon jasmine is often used to bring positive energy and promote relaxation in a space. Placing it in the home or garden can enhance the overall flow of chi, create a soothing atmosphere, and can be used to attract love and money when placed in the corresponding bagua areas.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCommon jasmine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Common jasmine is often associated with love and is frequently used in wedding bouquets to symbolize the deep affection between couples.
- Purity: Its pristine white flowers are symbolic of purity and innocence, which is why it's also common in bridal bouquets and ceremonial decorations.
- Beauty: Jasmine signifies beauty both inward and outward, as its delicate blooms and sweet fragrance capture the essence of physical and inner grace.
- Sensuality: The intoxicating scent of jasmine is known to be an aphrodisiac, symbolizing sensuality and eroticism.
- Motherhood: In some cultures, jasmine embodies motherhood and the nurturing aspects of femininity due to its prolific blossoming and nurturing scent.
- Good Luck: Jasmine is often considered a symbol of good luck and is believed to bring prosperity and fortune to those who keep it or wear it.
- Peace: Its soothing fragrance makes jasmine a symbol of peace and calm, often used to create tranquil environments for meditation or relaxation.
WaterThe Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil becomes dry, which can vary depending on environmental conditions but generally equates to watering once a week. During the growing season in spring and summer, watering may need to be more frequent, while in winter less water is needed. It’s important to provide enough water to moisten the soil through to the bottom of the pot without leaving the plant in standing water. Approximately half a gallon of water per week for an average-sized plant should suffice, ensuring you adjust according to temperature and humidity
LightCommon Jasmine thrives in bright, indirect light, making an east or west-facing window a suitable spot. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but too much intense light can scorch its leaves. If placed outdoors, dappled shade is ideal to protect it from the harsh midday sun
TemperatureCommon Jasmine prefers a temperature range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit. However, to encourage flowering and healthy growth, maintaining the ideal temperature range is best
PruningPruning Common Jasmine helps to maintain its shape, encourage fuller growth, and remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune right after the plant finishes flowering, which is usually in late summer or early fall. Use clean, sharp shears to cut back stems that have bloomed, and thin out any crowded areas to improve air circulation
CleaningAs needed
SoilCommon jasmine (Jasminum officinale) thrives best in well-draining, rich, loamy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. To create the best soil mix, combine two parts loam, one part well-rotted compost, and one part sand or perlite to ensure adequate drainage. Regularly adding organic matter will help maintain soil fertility.
RepottingCommon jasmine typically needs to be repotted every two to three years. It is best to do so in the spring before new growth begins. When the plant becomes root-bound or the soil appears exhausted, it's time to repot into a slightly larger container with fresh soil mix.
Humidity & MistingCommon jasmine prefers a humidity level of around 40-50%. While this plant appreciates some moisture in the air, it is quite adaptable and can thrive in average home humidity levels. However, increased humidity can promote more vigorous growth and a healthier plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place common jasmine in bright, indirect light and ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant common jasmine in sun to part-shade; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleJasminum officinale f. affine, commonly known as Poet's Jasmine, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in favorable conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling emerges, developing into a young plant with distinct jasmine foliage, and as it matures, it forms a woody vine with vigorous growth. Poet's Jasmine enters a vegetative stage in which it produces dense, green foliage and prepares for flowering. During the reproductive stage, typically in late spring or early summer, it produces fragrant, white flowers that are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of small black berries as fruits. The seeds within these berries can be dispersed by various means, such as animals or gravity, to initiate a new life cycle. In temperate climates, the plant may experience a period of dormancy in winter before resuming growth in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Jasminum officinale, commonly known as common jasmine or poet's jasmine, is often propagated through layering, which tends to be the most popular method. This process is typically done in late winter or early spring, before the plant begins to actively grow. To propagate by layering, a healthy, low-hanging branch is chosen. The branch is slightly wounded or notched on the underside, then bent to the ground and covered with soil in the wounded section, leaving the tip exposed. The wounded part of the stem should develop roots while still attached to the parent plant. Once the new plant has established sufficient root system, usually after a few months, it is severed from the original plant and replanted where desired. This approach leverages the mother plant's resources, improving the chances of successful rooting and growth.
![Forsythia [Marée d'Or]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b5d7568293.png&w=640&q=75)
