Jasminum grandiflorum - Spanish jasmine

Jasminum grandiflorum, also known as the Spanish Jasmine or Large-Flowered Jasmine, has been cultivated on a large scale for over 3 centuries for the extraction of its extraordinary fragrance. This fragrance is unique and perfectly balanced, being both sweet and powdery, fruity and floral. This jasmine can still be found in the gardens of old farmhouses, forming a dense thicket where its branches intertwine, resembling more of a disordered bush than an elegant climber. Its star-shaped flowers, larger than average for this genus, bloom for a long period, from May to October-November in mild climates. Whether planted in the ground or in a pot on the terrace, adopt this true jasmine for its fragrance!

Jasminum grandiflorum belongs to the olive family. Originally from the western Himalayas, it is spread from northwest India to Pakistan, as well as the Arabian Peninsula, and even Africa, including Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Some botanists consider it a subspecies of Jasminum officinale. Less hardy than the latter, J. grandiflorum can be easily grown in the ground in areas where the temperature does not drop below -6°C (21.2°F) for two consecutive weeks. This climbing bush reaches an average height of 3m (10ft) under favourable conditions and spreads over 2.5m (8ft), with a relatively fast growth rate. The flowering period is remarkably long in moist soil, lasting from May to November. In dry and hot climates, it goes through a resting period in July-August and resumes in September with the return of rain. The plant produces loose panicles of 2 to 9 button-like buds at the axils of its leaves or at the end of its branches. These buds open into 5-petaled flowers, measuring 4cm (2in) in width. They are red-pink on the outside and pure white on the inside. The semi-evergreen foliage is composed of pinnate leaves with 5 or 9 small ovate to lanceolate leaflets, with a slightly bluish-green colour. The stems become woody and light brown with age, devoid of leaves. The young branches, which bear the foliage, are green, angular, or channelled.

If guided in its growth, Jasminum grandiflorum can climb over shrubs, trellises, arches, pergolas, stair railings, or balcony railings in favourable climates. As evidenced by old plants growing almost wild in neglected gardens, it is perfectly capable of withstanding neglect and long Mediterranean summers. In colder regions, it can be grown in a container to be moved to a protected area during winter. Place it on the terrace to fully enjoy its unforgettable fragrance, but avoid placing it near a bedroom with an open window; some claim that its scent disrupts sleep and can cause headaches. One of the best uses in the ground is to plant it as part of an evergreen hedge: in winter, its often bare branches blend into the vegetation, while in summer, delicate garlands of light foliage and beautiful white, fragrant stars adorn it with a touch of magic.

Its highly fragrant flowers are used in perfumery, to flavour tea, and are also used in traditional remedies in Asia. The essential oil extracted from these flowers is used in both perfumery and cooking. Its aroma can be found in maraschino cherries.