A Florist Guide to Jasmine Varieties
Jasmine plants are beloved worldwide for their intoxicating fragrance and delicate flowers. While "jasmine" refers to several genera, true jasmines belong to the genus Jasminum, which contains around 200 species. Here's a flower delivery guide to the most popular and noteworthy varieties.
True Jasmines (Jasminum species)
Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)
Also known as poet's jasmine or common white jasmine, this is one of the most widely cultivated species. It produces clusters of pure white, intensely fragrant flowers from summer through fall. This deciduous or semi-evergreen vine can reach 15-30 feet and thrives in zones 7-10. The flowers are traditionally used in perfumery and jasmine tea.
Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac)
Perhaps the most fragrant of all jasmines, Arabian jasmine is an evergreen shrub native to Southeast Asia. Its white flowers, which bloom year-round in warm climates, are used to make jasmine tea and garlands. Popular cultivars include 'Grand Duke of Tuscany' (double flowers), 'Maid of Orleans' (single flowers), and 'Belle of India' (larger, fuller blooms). It grows 6-10 feet tall and prefers zones 9-11.
Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum)
Unique among jasmines, this variety produces bright yellow, unscented flowers in late winter before its leaves appear. It's a deciduous, arching shrub that grows 3-15 feet and is hardier than most jasmines, surviving in zones 6-10. It's an excellent choice for adding early-season color.
Pink Jasmine (Jasminum polyanthum)
This vigorous climber features clusters of pink-budded flowers that open to reveal white, highly fragrant blooms. Flowering occurs in late winter to spring, making it popular for indoor cultivation in cooler climates. It can grow 10-20 feet and is suitable for zones 8-11.
Primrose Jasmine (Jasminum mesnyi)
Also called Japanese jasmine, this evergreen shrub produces bright yellow, unscented double flowers in spring. It has a sprawling habit, reaching 6-10 feet, and works well as a ground cover or trained on supports. Hardy in zones 8-11.
Spanish Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum)
Known for its large, extremely fragrant white flowers, this semi-evergreen vine is prized in the perfume industry. It blooms from summer to fall and grows 10-15 feet tall. It's best suited for zones 9-11 and is also called royal jasmine or Catalonian jasmine.
Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
Though not a true jasmine, this popular vine deserves mention as it's commonly called Confederate jasmine. It produces masses of white, pinwheel-shaped flowers with an intense jasmine-like fragrance. This evergreen climber is more cold-hardy than many true jasmines (zones 8-10) and grows 15-20 feet.
Growing Conditions
Most jasmine varieties prefer:
Light: Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours of sun for best flowering)
Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil
Water: Regular watering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Temperature: Most are tropical or subtropical; protect from frost
Support: Climbing varieties need trellises, arbors, or fences
Uses
Perfumery: Jasmine absolute, extracted from flowers, is one of the most expensive perfume ingredients. J. grandiflorum and J. sambac are most commonly used.
Tea: J. sambac flowers are traditionally used to scent green or white tea, creating jasmine tea.
Ornamental: All varieties make stunning additions to gardens, patios, or as houseplants in cooler climates.
Cultural significance: Jasmine flowers hold religious and cultural importance in many Asian countries and are used in ceremonies, garlands, and offerings.
Care Tips
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth
Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer
Bring container-grown plants indoors before first frost in cold climates
Watch for pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies
Provide adequate humidity for indoor plants
Choosing the Right Variety
Consider your climate, available space, and desired characteristics:
Cold climates: Winter jasmine or star jasmine (hardiest options)
Container growing: Arabian jasmine or pink jasmine
Fragrance: Arabian jasmine, common jasmine, or Spanish jasmine
Year-round blooms: Arabian jasmine (in warm climates)
Early color: Winter jasmine or primrose jasmine
With proper care and the right variety for your conditions, jasmine can provide years of beauty and fragrance to your garden or home.
