Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)

Common Jasmine, also known as Jasminum officinale, poet’s jasmine, or white jasmine, is a beloved plant cherished for its intoxicating fragrance and delicate, star-shaped flowers. This vigorous vine offers a beautiful solution for adding vertical interest and a sweet scent to gardens, patios, and even indoor spaces.

Gardencenterpoint.com recognizes the appeal of Jasminum officinale and provides resources to help you successfully cultivate this captivating plant. This guide covers everything you need to know, from planting and care to exploring different varieties, ensuring your Common Jasmine thrives and fills your surroundings with its delightful perfume,and where to buy common Jasmine near me.

What is Common Jasmine? Understanding the Basics

Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a semi-evergreen or deciduous vine native to regions spanning from the Caucasus to western China. It’s a member of the olive family (Oleaceae) and is renowned for its intensely fragrant white flowers, which typically bloom from late spring to fall, and even year-round in warmer climates. The fragrance is most potent in the evening and early morning.

The plant’s rapid growth and twining habit make it ideal for covering trellises, arbors, fences, or walls. It can also be grown in containers, where it can be trained into a shrub-like form or allowed to cascade over the edges. Leaves are compound, meaning they are made up of multiple leaflets, typically 5-9, and are a vibrant green color.

Profile of Common Jasmine

Feature	Description
Botanical Name	Jasminum officinale
Common Names	Common Jasmine, Poet’s Jasmine, White Jasmine, True Jasmine, Jessamine
Family	Oleaceae (Olive family)
Plant Type	Deciduous or semi-evergreen vine
Native Region	Caucasus, northern Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Himalayas, Tajikistan, India, Nepal, and western China.
Mature Size	10-15 feet tall and wide (can be larger with support)
Sun Exposure	Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for best flowering)
Soil Type	Well-draining, moderately fertile soil
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Bloom Time	Late spring to fall (may bloom year-round in warm climates)
Flower Color	White
Fragrance	Strong, sweet, and intoxicating
Hardiness Zones	USDA Zones 7-10 (some varieties may tolerate Zone 6 with protection)
Toxicity	All parts are toxic, and the sap can cause skin irritation.
Uses	Ornamental, perfumery, aromatherapy, traditional medicine (consult a professional before medicinal use)

The long history of Jasminum officinale cultivation is reflected in its numerous common names and its presence in literature and art across various cultures. It’s a plant that truly engages the senses and adds a touch of romance to any garden setting. A study from the Journal of Biological Chemistry highlights the complex chemical composition of jasmine’s fragrance, including compounds like benzyl acetate, indole, and jasmone, which contribute to its unique and captivating scent.

Planting Common Jasmine

Planting Common Jasmine correctly is crucial for its long-term health and flowering potential. Gardencenterpoint provides this step-by-step guide to ensure successful planting:

1. Choosing the Right Location: Select a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While Common Jasmine can tolerate partial shade, flowering will be reduced. Ensure the location has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
2. Soil Preparation: Common Jasmine prefers well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. A soil test can help determine the pH and nutrient levels, allowing you to make necessary adjustments. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
3. Planting Time: The best time to plant Common Jasmine is in the spring or early fall. This allows the plant to establish roots before the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.
4. Planting Depth and Spacing: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Gently remove the plant from its container, taking care not to damage the roots. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Space plants 1.5m to 2.5m apart, depending on the desired coverage.
5. Watering After Planting: Water the newly planted jasmine thoroughly, saturating the root zone. This helps settle the soil and eliminates air pockets.
6. Adding Support: If planting near a trellis, arbor, or other support structure, gently guide the vines towards the support as they grow. You can use soft plant ties to secure them initially.
7. Mulching. Add 2-3 centimeters of mulch in the spring, around the jasmine to keep weeds from growing.

Here’s a table summarizing the planting process:

Step	Action
1. Location	Choose a sunny spot (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with good air circulation.
2. Soil Prep	Amend heavy clay soils with compost. Aim for a pH of 6.0-7.5.
3. Timing	Plant in spring or early fall.
4. Planting	Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, plant at the same depth as it was in the container, and space plants 1.5m to 2.5m apart.
5. Watering	Water thoroughly after planting.
6. Support	Provide a trellis, arbor, or other support structure.
7. Mulching	Add 2-3 centimeters of mulch around the base of the plant

Following these steps will give your Common Jasmine the best possible start, setting the stage for years of fragrant blooms.

Essential Common Jasmine Care: Sunlight, Water, and Soil

Proper care is essential to keep your Common Jasmine healthy and producing abundant flowers. Gardencenterpoint.com emphasizes these key aspects of care:

• Sunlight: As mentioned, Common Jasmine thrives in full sun (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day). More sun generally equates to more flowers. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent leaf scorch.
• Watering: Common Jasmine prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently. Container-grown plants typically require more frequent watering than those in the ground. A good rule of thumb is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is paramount. Avoid planting in areas where water tends to pool, as this can lead to root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) is ideal. Regular additions of organic matter, such as compost, will help improve soil structure and fertility over time.
• Fertilizing: Common Jasmine benefits from regular feeding, especially during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering vines, or a fertilizer with a slightly higher phosphorus content to promote blooming. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and frequency. A good example is a 10-10-10 fertilizer, or a bloom-boosting formula like 10-30-10.
• Winter Care (in colder climates): In USDA Zones 6 and 7, Common Jasmine may require winter protection. Mulch heavily around the base of the plant to insulate the roots. You can also wrap the vines with burlap or frost cloth to protect them from freezing temperatures. Container-grown plants can be moved indoors to a cool, bright location for the winter.

Here’s a care summary table:

Care Aspect	Recommendations
Sunlight	Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight)
Watering	Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry.
Soil	Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Amend with compost.
Fertilizing	Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a bloom-boosting formula during the growing season. Follow package instructions.
Winter Care	In Zones 6 and 7, mulch heavily and consider wrapping vines with burlap or frost cloth. Move container plants indoors.

By consistently providing these essential care elements, you’ll ensure your Common Jasmine remains healthy, vigorous, and covered in fragrant blooms.

Pruning and Training Your Common Jasmine

Pruning and training are important for maintaining the shape, size, and flowering potential of your Common Jasmine. Gardencenterpoint recommends the following:

• Timing: The best time to prune Common Jasmine is immediately after it finishes flowering. This allows the plant to develop new growth that will produce flowers the following season. Avoid heavy pruning in late winter or early spring, as this can remove flower buds.
• Pruning Techniques:
  • Thinning: Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.
  • Shaping: Prune to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. You can cut back long, leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
  • Rejuvenation Pruning: For older, overgrown plants, you can cut back the entire plant to within a few feet of the ground to stimulate new growth. This is best done in late winter or early spring.
• Training: Common Jasmine is a twining vine, meaning it climbs by wrapping its stems around supports. Provide a trellis, arbor, fence, or other structure for the plant to climb on. Gently guide the vines onto the support and use soft plant ties to secure them as needed.

Here’s a summary table:

Action	Timing	Technique
Pruning	Immediately after flowering	Thin out dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, and rejuvenate overgrown plants by cutting back severely.
Training	Ongoing, as the plant grows	Provide a support structure (trellis, arbor, etc.) and gently guide vines onto the support, using soft plant ties as needed.

Regular pruning and training will not only keep your Common Jasmine looking its best but will also promote abundant flowering and prevent the plant from becoming an unruly tangle.

5. Common Jasmine Pests and Diseases: Prevention and Treatment (Heading 2)

While generally a hardy plant, Common Jasmine can occasionally be affected by pests and diseases. Gardencenterpoint emphasizes prevention and early intervention:

• Common Pests:
  • Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distorted growth and sooty mold.
  • Spider Mites: Tiny pests that thrive in hot, dry conditions and cause stippling on leaves.
  • Whiteflies: Small, white, winged insects that feed on plant sap and excrete honeydew, leading to sooty mold.
  • Mealybugs: Small, cottony-looking insects that cluster on stems and leaves.
• Common Diseases:
  • Leaf Spot: Fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves.
  • Powdery Mildew: Fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves.
  • Root Rot: Fungal disease that occurs in poorly drained soils and causes wilting and yellowing of leaves.
• Prevention:
  • Provide good air circulation by pruning regularly and spacing plants adequately.
  • Avoid overhead watering, which can create humid conditions that favor fungal diseases.
  • Maintain healthy soil with good drainage.
  • Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases.
• Treatment:
  • Aphids: Wash off with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Spider Mites: Increase humidity around the plant, and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
  • Whiteflies: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or yellow sticky traps.
  • Mealybugs: Dab with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Leaf Spot: Remove and destroy affected leaves. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Powdery Mildew: Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may be necessary.
  • Root Rot: Improve soil drainage. In severe cases, the plant may need to be removed and discarded.

Here’s a table summarizing pest and disease management:

Problem	Prevention	Treatment
Aphids	Good air circulation, regular inspection.	Wash off with water, insecticidal soap, neem oil.
Spider Mites	Increase humidity, regular inspection.	Increase humidity, insecticidal soap, horticultural oil.
Whiteflies	Regular inspection.	Insecticidal soap, neem oil, yellow sticky traps.
Mealybugs	Regular inspection.	Dab with rubbing alcohol, insecticidal soap, neem oil.
Leaf Spot	Good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove affected leaves.	Remove and destroy affected leaves, improve air circulation, fungicides (if severe).
Powdery Mildew	Good air circulation, avoid overhead watering.	Improve air circulation, fungicides.
Root Rot	Well-draining soil.	Improve soil drainage, remove and discard plant (if severe).

By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems and keep your Common Jasmine healthy and thriving.

Common Jasmine Varieties and Cultivars

While Jasminum officinale is the “common” jasmine, there are several noteworthy varieties and cultivars that offer variations in flower size, fragrance intensity, and growth habit. Gardencenterpoint highlights a few:

• Jasminum officinale ‘Affine’ (also known as Jasminum officinale f. affine): This variety is known for its larger flowers and pink-tinged buds, which open to reveal pure white blooms. The fragrance is particularly strong.
• Jasminum officinale ‘Argenteovariegatum’: This cultivar features leaves that are edged in creamy white, adding a touch of variegation to the garden. The flowers are similar to the species.
• Jasminum officinale ‘Aureovariegatum’: This variety has leaves with golden-yellow variegation, providing a bright and cheerful contrast to the white flowers.
• Jasminum officinale ‘Fiona Sunrise’: A relatively new cultivar, ‘Fiona Sunrise’ boasts bright golden-yellow foliage that holds its color well throughout the season. The flowers are white and fragrant.
• Other Jasmine Species: It’s important to note that the term “jasmine” is also used for other species within the Jasminum genus, some of which are commonly confused with Jasminum officinale. These include:
  • Jasminum grandiflorum (Spanish Jasmine): Very similar to J. officinale, often used interchangeably in perfumery.
  • Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine): Known for its intensely fragrant flowers, often used in tea and leis.
  • Jasminum polyanthum (Pink Jasmine): A vigorous vine with pink buds that open to white, highly fragrant flowers.

Here’s a table comparing some varieties:

Variety/Cultivar	Distinguishing Features
J. officinale ‘Affine’	Larger flowers, pink-tinged buds, strong fragrance.
J. officinale ‘Argenteovariegatum’	Creamy-white variegated leaves.
J. officinale ‘Aureovariegatum’	Golden-yellow variegated leaves.
J. officinale ‘Fiona Sunrise’	Bright golden-yellow foliage.
J. grandiflorum	Very similar to J. officinale, often used in perfumery.
J. sambac	Intensely fragrant flowers, used in tea and leis.
J. polyanthum	Pink buds, white flowers, very vigorous.

When choosing a Common Jasmine variety, consider your personal preferences for flower size, fragrance, and foliage characteristics. Also, be sure to confirm the specific hardiness zone for each variety, as some may be more cold-tolerant than others.

Common Jasmine Propagation

Propagating Common Jasmine allows you to create new plants from your existing one, expanding your collection or sharing with friends and family. Gardencenterpoint outlines the most common methods:

• Cuttings: This is the most popular and reliable method for propagating Common Jasmine.
  • Timing: Take cuttings in late spring or early summer, after the plant has finished flowering.
  • Procedure:
    1. Select healthy, non-flowering stems that are about 4-6 inches long.
    2. Cut just below a node (the point where a leaf or branch emerges).
    3. Remove the lower leaves, leaving 2-3 sets of leaves at the top.
    4. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional, but can improve success rates).
    5. Insert the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of perlite and peat moss.
    6. Water thoroughly and cover the pot with a plastic bag or humidity dome to create a humid environment.
    7. Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.
    8. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
    9. Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks. You can gently tug on the cuttings to check for resistance, which indicates root growth.
    10. Once rooted, transplant the cuttings into individual pots or into the garden.
• Layering: This method involves encouraging a stem to root while it’s still attached to the parent plant.
  • Timing: Layering can be done in spring or fall.
  • Procedure:
    1. Select a low-growing, flexible stem.
    2. Gently bend the stem down to the ground.
    3. Make a small wound or scrape on the underside of the stem where it will touch the soil.
    4. Bury the wounded portion of the stem in the soil, securing it with a U-shaped pin or rock.
    5. Keep the soil consistently moist.
    6. Roots should develop within a few months.
    7. Once rooted, sever the new plant from the parent plant and transplant it.

Here’s a table summarizing propagation methods:

Method	Timing	Procedure
Cuttings	Late spring/early summer	Take 4-6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant in well-draining mix, keep moist and humid, transplant when rooted.
Layering	Spring or fall	Bend a low-growing stem to the ground, wound the underside, bury the wounded portion, keep moist, sever and transplant when rooted.

Both cuttings and layering are relatively easy methods for propagating Common Jasmine, allowing you to enjoy even more of this beautiful and fragrant plant.

Uses and Benefits of Common Jasmine

Common Jasmine offers a multitude of uses and benefits that extend far beyond its undeniable visual appeal. Gardencenterpoint.com recognizes the holistic value of this plant, encompassing ornamental, commercial, and even therapeutic applications.

• Ornamental Grandeur: A Feast for the Senses: This is the most readily apparent use of Common Jasmine. The plant’s cascading growth habit, adorned with clusters of delicate, star-shaped white flowers, makes it a superb choice for enhancing outdoor spaces. It lends itself beautifully to:
  • Vertical Accents: Training Common Jasmine on trellises, arbors, pergolas, or fences creates a stunning vertical element in the garden, adding height and visual interest.
  • Fragrant Backdrops: Planting jasmine near patios, seating areas, or walkways allows its intoxicating perfume to permeate the surroundings, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. The fragrance is notably more intense in the evening and early morning hours.
  • Container Gardening: Common Jasmine can be successfully grown in containers, offering flexibility in placement and allowing those with limited space to enjoy its beauty. Container-grown jasmine can be trained into a shrub-like form or allowed to spill gracefully over the edges.
  • Ground Cover (with training): While naturally a vine, with consistent pruning and training, Common Jasmine can be used as a sprawling ground cover, particularly on slopes or in areas where a low-growing, fragrant plant is desired.
• Perfumery’s Precious Ingredient: A Timeless Essence: Jasmine’s captivating fragrance has made it a cornerstone of the perfume industry for centuries. The essential oil extracted from the flowers is a highly valued and costly ingredient, contributing a rich, floral, and slightly sweet note to countless perfumes.
  • Extraction Methods: The traditional method of extracting jasmine oil is enfleurage, a labor-intensive process where flowers are placed on layers of purified fat, which absorbs the fragrance. The fat is then washed with alcohol to separate the fragrant oil. More commonly today, solvent extraction is used, employing volatile solvents to extract the aromatic compounds.
  • Chemical Composition: The unique scent of jasmine is due to a complex blend of volatile organic compounds. Key components include benzyl acetate (fruity, sweet), indole (floral, animalic), jasmone (sweet, floral, spicy), and methyl jasmonate (floral, sweet). Research published in the journal Flavour and Fragrance Journal details the intricate chemical profiles of different jasmine species and their impact on fragrance characteristics.
  • Iconic Fragrances: Jasmine is a key ingredient in many iconic perfumes, both classic and contemporary. It adds depth, complexity, and a touch of luxury to these fragrances.
• Aromatherapy’s Ally: Promoting Well-being: Beyond its use in perfumes, jasmine essential oil is a popular choice in aromatherapy. It’s believed to possess a range of therapeutic properties, although it’s important to note that more rigorous scientific research is needed to fully substantiate some of these claims.
  • Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Inhaling jasmine’s scent is often associated with relaxation and a reduction in stress and anxiety levels. Some studies suggest that jasmine oil may influence brainwave activity and neurotransmitter function, contributing to these calming effects. A study published in the Journal of Health Research found that inhaling jasmine oil significantly reduced autonomic arousal levels and improved mood in participants.
  • Mood Enhancement: Jasmine is also believed to have mood-boosting properties, potentially alleviating symptoms of mild depression and promoting feelings of well-being. The uplifting and slightly euphoric nature of the fragrance is often cited as a contributing factor.
  • Sleep Improvement: Some proponents of aromatherapy suggest that jasmine oil can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect.
  • Aphrodisiac Properties: Jasmine has a long-standing reputation as an aphrodisiac. While scientific evidence is limited, the sensual and intoxicating nature of the fragrance may contribute to this perception.
• Enhances Property Value The beuty of common Jasmine has the potential to increase real estate value.
  • Curb Appeal: A well-maintained garden featuring fragrant plants like Common Jasmine can significantly enhance a property’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Outdoor Living Spaces: Jasmine can transform outdoor living spaces, such as patios and decks, into inviting and luxurious retreats, adding to the overall value of the property.
  • Sense of Luxury: The presence of fragrant and visually appealing plants like jasmine can create a sense of luxury and sophistication, which can positively influence a buyer’s perception of the property.
  • Well-Maintained Landscape: A thriving jasmine plant, along with other well-cared-for landscaping elements, signals to potential buyers that the property has been well-maintained, suggesting overall good condition.
• Traditional Medicine: Historical Uses and Cautions: In various traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, jasmine has been used for a variety of purposes. It’s crucial to emphasize that these uses are based on traditional knowledge and may not be supported by modern scientific evidence. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using jasmine for any medicinal purpose.
  • Skin Health: Jasmine has been used topically to treat skin conditions, such as dryness, inflammation, and minor wounds. However, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.
  • Digestive Issues: In some traditions, jasmine tea or infusions have been used to aid digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. Again, more research is needed.
  • Respiratory Relief: Jasmine has been used to address respiratory issues, such as coughs and congestion. Scientific evidence is lacking.
  • Important Note: Jasmine can interact with certain medications and may not be safe for everyone, particularly pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult a healthcare professional before using jasmine medicinally.
• Culinary Applications: A Delicate Flavor (Limited Use): While not as widely used as other culinary herbs, jasmine flowers can impart a delicate floral flavor to certain dishes and beverages. Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine) is more commonly used for culinary purposes than Jasminum officinale.
  • Jasmine Tea: The most common culinary application is jasmine tea, where green or white tea leaves are scented with jasmine flowers.
  • Desserts: Jasmine flowers can be used to infuse flavor into desserts, such as ice cream, custards, and pastries.
  • Rice Dishes: In some Asian cuisines, jasmine flowers are used to add a subtle fragrance to rice dishes.
  • Caution: Use only food-grade jasmine flowers and avoid consuming large quantities.

Here’s a detailed table summarizing the uses and benefits:

Use/Benefit Category	Specific Use/Benefit	Description	Details
Ornamental	Vertical Accent	Adds height and visual interest to gardens using trellises, arbors, etc.	Common garden design practice; enhances aesthetic appeal.
	Fragrant Backdrop	Creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere near seating areas, walkways.	Fragrance is most intense in the evening and early morning.
	Container Gardening	Provides flexibility in placement; can be trained into a shrub-like form or allowed to cascade.	Suitable for patios, balconies, and small gardens.
	Ground Cover (with training)	Can be used as a sprawling ground cover on slopes or in areas needing low-growing, fragrant plants.	Requires consistent pruning and training.
Perfumery	Essential Oil Extraction	Traditional enfleurage or modern solvent extraction methods are used.	Enfleurage is labor-intensive; solvent extraction is more common.
	Key Fragrance Component	Contributes a rich, floral, and slightly sweet note to perfumes.	Key compounds include benzyl acetate, indole, jasmone, and methyl jasmonate. Research published in Flavour and Fragrance Journal.
	Ingredient in Iconic Fragrances	Adds depth, complexity, and luxury to perfumes.	Used in many classic and contemporary perfumes.
Aromatherapy	Stress and Anxiety Reduction	Inhaling jasmine’s scent is associated with relaxation.	Studies suggest potential influence on brainwave activity and neurotransmitters. Study published in the Journal of Health Research.
	Mood Enhancement	Believed to have mood-boosting properties, potentially alleviating mild depression.	Uplifting and slightly euphoric fragrance is often cited.
	Sleep Improvement (Potential)	Some proponents suggest it can promote relaxation and improve sleep.	More research is needed.
	Aphrodisiac Properties (Traditional)	Long-standing reputation as an aphrodisiac.	Limited scientific evidence; sensual fragrance may contribute.
Enhances Value	Increased Real Estate	Improves curb appeal and can transform outdoor living spaces.	Creates a sence of luxury for potentail buyers.
Traditional Medicine	Skin Health (Traditional, Limited Evidence)	Used topically for dryness, inflammation, minor wounds.	Based on traditional knowledge; limited scientific support.
	Digestive Issues (Traditional, Limited Evidence)	Tea or infusions used to aid digestion and relieve discomfort.	Based on traditional knowledge; more research is needed.
	Respiratory Relief (Traditional, Limited Evidence)	Used to address coughs and congestion.	Based on traditional knowledge; scientific evidence is lacking.
	Crucial Caution:	Consult a healthcare professional before medicinal use. Jasmine can interact with medications and may not be safe for everyone.	Prioritize safety and professional medical advice.
Culinary	Jasmine Tea	Green or white tea leaves scented with jasmine flowers.	Most common culinary application.
	Desserts	Flowers can infuse flavor into ice cream, custards, pastries.	Use sparingly; Jasminum sambac is more commonly used.
	Rice Dishes	Used in some Asian cuisines to add fragrance to rice.	Subtle floral aroma.
	Caution:	Use only food-grade flowers and avoid consuming large quantities.	Ensure flowers are sourced from a reputable supplier.

Common Jasmine vs. Star Jasmine

The core difference: Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) and Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) are entirely different plants, despite sharing similar common names and fragrant white flowers. Common Jasmine is a true jasmine (genus Jasminum), while Star Jasmine is not a true jasmine but belongs to a different genus (Trachelospermum, in the dogbane family). The easiest way to tell them apart immediately is by looking at the leaves and growth habit, but read on.

Many gardeners, especially those new to fragrant plants, understandably get Common Jasmine and Star Jasmine confused. Both offer beautiful white blooms and intoxicating scents, leading to frequent misidentification. However, understanding their distinct characteristics is essential for choosing the right plant for your garden and providing appropriate care. Gardencenterpoint is here to clarify the distinctions.

Key Differences Summarized:

Feature	Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)	Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
Genus	Jasminum (True Jasmine)	Trachelospermum (Not a true jasmine)
Family	Oleaceae (Olive family)	Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
Leaf Type	Compound (5-9 leaflets)	Simple (single, oval-shaped leaves)
Leaf Texture	Thinner, softer	Thicker, leathery, glossy
Growth Habit	Twining vine (wraps stems around supports)	Twining vine, but can also be more sprawling or shrub-like with pruning
Flower Shape	Star-shaped with distinct, separated petals	Star-shaped with petals that are more fused at the base, giving a pinwheel appearance
Fragrance	Sweet, intense, often described as more “heady”	Sweet, intense, often described as slightly more citrusy or spicy
Hardiness Zones	Typically Zones 7-10	Typically Zones 8-11 (slightly more cold-hardy)
Sap	Can cause skin irritation	Milky sap, can also cause skin irritation
Toxicity	Toxic	Non-toxic

Detailed Comparison:

• Botanical Classification: This is the most fundamental difference. Jasminum officinale belongs to the olive family (Oleaceae), while Trachelospermum jasminoides is part of the dogbane family (Apocynaceae). This difference in family indicates significant variations in their evolutionary history and botanical characteristics.
• Leaf Characteristics: This is often the easiest way to distinguish between the two plants:
  • Common Jasmine: Has compound leaves, meaning each leaf is made up of multiple smaller leaflets (typically 5-9 leaflets). The leaflets are generally thinner and have a softer texture.
  • Star Jasmine: Has simple leaves, meaning each leaf is a single, undivided blade. The leaves are typically oval-shaped, thicker, leathery, and have a glossy appearance.
• Growth Habit: Both are twining vines, meaning they climb by wrapping their stems around supports. However, Star Jasmine tends to have a slightly more sprawling or shrub-like growth habit, especially with regular pruning. It can be more easily maintained as a ground cover or a bushy shrub than Common Jasmine.
• Flower Appearance: While both have star-shaped white flowers, there are subtle differences:
  • Common Jasmine: The petals are typically more distinct and separated, giving a more classic “star” shape.
  • Star Jasmine: The petals are often slightly more fused at the base, creating a more “pinwheel” or propeller-like appearance.
• Fragrance Nuances: Both plants are highly fragrant, but experienced gardeners often note subtle differences:
  • Common Jasmine: The fragrance is often described as sweeter, more intense, and sometimes “headier” or more intoxicating.
  • Star Jasmine: The fragrance is also sweet and intense, but it’s often described as having slightly more citrusy or spicy undertones. This is a subjective difference, and individual perceptions may vary.
• Cold Hardiness: Star Jasmine is generally slightly more cold-hardy than Common Jasmine.
  • Common Jasmine: Typically hardy in USDA Zones 7-10.
  • Star Jasmine: Typically hardy in USDA Zones 8-11. It may survive in Zone 7 with protection, especially in a sheltered location.
• Sap: Both plants have sap that can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It’s advisable to wear gloves when pruning or handling either plant. Star Jasmine has a noticeably milky sap, while Common Jasmine’s sap is less milky.

Toxicity:

• Common Jasmine: Toxic.
• Star Jasmine: Non-toxic.

Common Jasmine Frequently Asked Questions

Gardencenterpoint.com addresses common questions about Common Jasmine:

• Q: How fast does Common Jasmine grow?
  • A: Common Jasmine is a relatively fast-growing vine. Under optimal conditions, it can grow several feet per year.
• Q: When does Common Jasmine bloom?
  • A: Common Jasmine typically blooms from late spring to fall. In warmer climates, it may bloom year-round.
• Q: Is Common Jasmine deer-resistant?
  • A: Common Jasmine is considered moderately deer-resistant. While deer may browse on it if other food sources are scarce, they generally don’t prefer it.
• Q: Is Common Jasmine invasive?
  • A: Common Jasmine is not considered invasive in most regions. However, in some warm, humid climates, it can spread aggressively. Regular pruning can help keep it under control.
• Q: Can Common Jasmine be grown indoors?
  • A: Yes, Common Jasmine can be grown indoors, provided it receives enough light. Place it near a sunny window that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. You may need to supplement with grow lights, especially during the winter months.
• Q: What is the difference between Common Jasmine and other types of jasmine?
  • A: As explained in Section 6, “jasmine” is a term used for various species within the Jasminum genus. Jasminum officinale is distinguished by its specific characteristics, including its white flowers, strong fragrance, and twining growth habit. Other jasmines, such as Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine) and Jasminum polyanthum (Pink Jasmine), have different flower colors, fragrances, and growth habits.
• Q: Is Common Jasmine toxic to pets?
  • A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic, and the sap can be a skin irritant.