Contents
Description
Jasminum Officinale, also known as common jasmine or poet’s jasmine, is a deciduous climbing plant that belongs to the olive family. It is native to Iran, Afghanistan, and neighboring regions, but has been widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its beautiful and fragrant white flowers.The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall, and has green, ovate leaves that are arranged opposite each other along the stem. The flowers are star-shaped, with five or six petals and a sweet, intense fragrance that is most powerful in the evening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Jasminum |
Appearance
Jasminum Officinale has green, ovate leaves that are arranged opposite each other along the stem. The flowers are white and star-shaped, with five or six petals that are slightly curved. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, and have a sweet, intense fragrance that is most powerful in the evening.
Care Guide
Jasminum Officinale requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:
Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. Use a soil mix that contains equal parts of peat moss, sand, and perlite.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Jasminum Officinale is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Jasminum Officinale is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and leaf curling. Use insecticidal soap to control infestations.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and fine webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control infestations.
Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Jasminum Officinale is native to Iran, Afghanistan, and neighboring regions, but has been widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its beautiful and fragrant white flowers. It prefers warm, humid climates and grows well in gardens, on trellises, and in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Jasminum Officinale grow indoors?
A: Yes, Jasminum Officinale can grow indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Jasminum Officinale plant?
A: Fertilize your Jasminum Officinale plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does Jasminum Officinale attract bees?
A: Yes, Jasminum Officinale is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How tall can Jasminum Officinale grow?
A: Jasminum Officinale can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Jasminum Officinale:
- Jasminum Sambac
- Jasminum Nudiflorum
- Jasminum Polyanthum
- Jasminum Grandiflorum
References
- “Jasminum Officinale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281864&isprofile=0&basic=jasminum%20officinale.
- “Jasmine.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed May 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/25844/jasmine/details.
- “Jasminum Officinale.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed May 22, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/jasminum-officinale.
