What Type of Flower Is a Jasmine?

Characteristics

• Jasmine plants are members of the Oleaceae family of plants. The Oleaceae family contains about 600 different species of plants. Jasmine plants are relatives of forsythia, primrose, privet and Madagascar olive. The blossoms appear throughout much of the summer and bloom in shades of pink, purple, yellow and white. The delicate flowers have single rows of petals that circle long clusters of pollen-bearing stamens. Those with white blossoms are the most common variety and provide the scent used in fragrant oils, incense, cosmetics and perfumes.

Growth Habit

• The smaller varieties of jasmine are perennial flowering plants, while the larger ones are shrubs and vines. Flowering shrubs are the most common variety in many moderate to temperate climates within the United States. The shrubs form thick, low hedges when planted in rows, while the vines can grow up to 15 feet long against sturdy supports, such as fences, arbors and nearby trees. Perennial flowering plants reach an average mature height between 1 and 2 feet. Perennial varieties have a trailing habit that makes them suitable for elevated planters and hanging pots.

Requirements

• Jasmines are the type of plants that tolerate a broad range of pH levels in soil. Most varieties grow in soil with a pH level between 4.9 and 8.3, making them suitable in both slightly acidic and slightly alkaline soil compositions. Although, they tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sand, they require an ample water supply throughout the growing season. Some varieties of jasmine, such as Jasminum polyanthum, require semi-tropical climate zones while others, such as star jasmine, can grow in climates as cold as U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 and 4.

Considerations

• While all jasmine plants are members of the Jasminum species and Oleaceae family, each variety has individual characteristics that make it more suitable for certain situations. Small, perennial plants require minimal amounts of space, while larger shrubs make nice ornamental plants in the landscape. Jasmine vines are especially suitable for using as fragrant screens around porches, patios and walkways.