Jasmine is one of the most beloved flowering plants.
It’s easy to see why.
- It has a delicate, sweet fragrance that fills the air.
- Its dainty white or pink flowers are revered for purity and beauty.
- It’s easy to grow, especially in a favorable climate like Southern California’s.
Jasmine originated in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa. The plant is culturally significant in India, Indonesia, and the Middle East and is often used in perfumes, teas, and rituals.
A healthy jasmine plant can live for 15 to 20 years. Some species soldier on even longer when grown in the ground.
Jasmine bushes in full aromatic bloom.
Choosing the Right Jasmine Plant
These varieties will grow equally well in your garden or containers:
Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)
This is one of the most widely grown jasmine species. Common jasmine is a vigorous climber that can reach up to 15 feet tall with support. Its white, star-shaped flowers have a strong and sweet fragrance.
Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac)
This jasmine variety is native to South and Southeast Asia. It grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching up to 10 feet high. Arabian jasmine produces clusters of highly fragrant white flowers that can be used to make tea.
Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
Also known as confederate jasmine, this plant isn’t a true jasmine but has a similar fragrance and appearance. It’s an evergreen vine that can grow up to 20 feet tall with support. Its small, star-shaped white flowers bloom profusely in early summer.
Jasmine trachelospermum blooms profusely in early summer.
Optimal Growing Conditions for Jasmine
Light
- Jasmine loves bright, indirect sunlight.
- Outdoor jasmine does best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- For indoor jasmine, find a spot near a sunny window.
Temperature
- Jasmine prefers warm, humid conditions.
- Temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (16°C – 24°C) are ideal.
- Protect plants from frost or cold drafts during winter.
Soil
- Soil should be well-drained and slightly acidic (6.0 to 6.5 pH).
- Enrich the soil with organic matter like compost for better growth.
- Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot.
Jasmine sambac grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching up to 10 feet high.
Propagating Jasmine
Propagating jasmine from stem cuttings is a straightforward process.
- Take a 4–6-inch cutting from a healthy jasmine plant in spring or early summer.
- Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone for faster rooting.
- Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil.
- Cover the pot with a plastic bag (to retain humidity), but ensure airflow.
- Keep it in a warm, sunny spot, and water occasionally. Roots should develop in 4–6 weeks.
Planting Jasmine Step-by-Step
The best time to plant jasmine is during the spring or early summer when the risk of frost has passed.
For outdoor jasmine, choose when temperatures consistently stay above 60°F (16°C). If you’re growing jasmine indoors or in containers, planting can be done year-round as long as the plant has adequate light and warmth.
- Select an area with ample light and good airflow. If planting outdoors, ensure the spot has a trellis or support for climbing jasmine.
- Loosen the soil and mix in compost or organic matter.
- Dig a hole twice the size of the plant’s root ball.
- Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the roots are covered but the stem’s base stem is above ground level.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Add a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Jasmine officinale is a vigorous climber that can reach up to 15 feet tall with support.
Jasmine Plant Care
Water
- Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist — not soggy.
- Allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- During warmer months, jasmine may need more frequent watering.
- During winter, reduce watering, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilizer
- Feed jasmine with a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Stop fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
Pests & Diseases
- Watch for pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal infections like root rot or powdery mildew.
Pruning
- Prune jasmine plants after flowering to shape them and remove dead or damaged stems.
- This encourages new growth and more blooms in the next season.
Jasmine Tea: A Fragrant & Healthy Beverage
Jasmine tea is a popular beverage made by adding jasmine flowers to green, black, or white tea.
- Jasmine tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
- The scent of jasmine can also have a calming effect and aid in relaxation.
- To make jasmine tea, steep 2–3 teaspoons of dried jasmine flowers in hot water for 3–5 minutes. Add your preferred type of tea (green, black, or white) and steep for an additional 1–2 minutes before removing the flowers.
Jasmine tea, anyone? Simply add the dried flowers to your favorite white, green, or black tea.
Jasmine in Aromatherapy
Jasmine essential oil is extracted from the flowers through a steam distillation process. It’s widely used in aromatherapy for its calming, uplifting effects. Here are some ways to use it at home:
- Dilute 3–5 drops of jasmine essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil for massages.
- Add a few drops to your bath for a relaxing soak.
- Diffuse jasmine essential oil using an oil diffuser to create an ambiance of tranquility in your home.
FAQs: Growing Jasmine
Q: Can I grow jasmine indoors?
Yes! Place indoor jasmine near a window that gets bright, indirect sunlight. Ensure proper care with watering and pruning to keep it happy.
Q: How often should I water jasmine?
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Consider the weather conditions — more frequent watering is needed in hot climates.
Q: Does jasmine grow in pots?
Jasmine does well in pots as long as they have drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix and re-pot when the plant outgrows its container.
Q: When’s the best time to prune jasmine?
Prune your jasmine right after it finishes blooming to maintain its shape and encourage robust growth.
Q: Can I train jasmine to climb?
Jasmine can easily be trained to climb trellises, fences, or arches with gentle tying and regular guidance.
Q: Does jasmine grow well in cold climates?
Jasmine prefers warmer climates. If you live in a cold region, consider growing it indoors or choosing a cold-hardy variety like winter jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum).
Q: Why is my jasmine not blooming?
Lack of sunlight or over-fertilizing with nitrogen-heavy feeds might be the culprit. Ensure your jasmine gets enough light and balanced fertilizer.