Jasmine

Jasmine is a genus of shrubs and vines in the olive family (Oleaceae). It contains around 200 species native to tropical and warm temperate regions of Eurasia and Oceania. Jasmines are widely cultivated for the characteristic fragrance of their flowers.

Description

Jasmines can be either deciduous (leaves falling in autumn) or evergreen (green all year round), and can be erect, spreading, or climbing shrubs and vines. They are typically white, although some species have yellow flowers.

Distribution and habitat

Jasmines are native to tropical and warm temperate regions of Eurasia, Australasia and Oceania, although only one of the 200 species is native to Europe. Their center of diversity is in South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Cultivation

Jasmine is widely cultivated for its flowers, enjoyed in the garden, as house plants, and as cut flowers. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and southeast Asia.

Uses

Many species also yield an absolute, which is used in the production of perfumes and incense. Some species are used to flavor tea, especially green tea.

Species

There are about 200 species, including:

• Jasminum officinale – common jasmine
• Jasminum grandiflorum – Spanish jasmine
• Jasminum sambac – Arabian jasmine
• Jasminum nudiflorum – winter jasmine

See also

• List of Jasminum species

References

Jasmine Resources
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