Jasminum officinale - Common jasmine

The True Jasmine or Common Jasmine, also known as Jasminum officinale in Latin, is the hardiest of the genus and one of the most fragrant. It is a large climber that is mostly deciduous in temperate climates, forming long slender stems capable of climbing up small trees. It blooms in summer and autumn, abundantly if the soil remains slightly moist, in the form of a multitude of small star-shaped flowers, white in colour, famous for their intoxicating fragrance. It perfumes a whole section of the garden or even a large terrace on summer evenings. This climber is easy to grow in ordinary but well-drained soil and has its place in the scented garden, in an evergreen hedge, or in a large pot on the balcony or terrace.

The Common Jasmine belongs to the Oleaceae family. Originating from China, specifically from the Himalayan regions, it grows in woods, hedges, and along rivers. Relatively hardy, this jasmine is easily cultivated in open ground in areas where the temperature does not drop below -15°C (5°F) for short periods. In favourable conditions, this climber can reach a height of 10m (33ft) and spread over 2.5 to 3m (8 to 10ft), with fairly rapid growth. The flowering period is remarkably long in moist soil, lasting for three months. In dry and hot climates, it takes a break in August and resumes in September with the return of rain. The plant is covered with numerous small clusters of pink buds that open into star-shaped flowers, 2 to 3cm (1in) in diameter, ivory white in colour, with an almost intoxicating fragrance. The foliage is composed of pinnate leaves with 5 or 7 small leaflets, bright green, deciduous below -5/-6°C (23/21.2°F) and evergreen if the temperature is milder. The stems become woody and light brown with age, devoid of leaves. The young branches, which bear the foliage, are green, glabrous (or weakly pubescent), angular or channelled.

Jasminum officinale climbs over shrubs, trellises, arches, pergolas, stair railings, or balconies. Plant it in a container on a terrace to fully enjoy its intense fragrance, but avoid placing it near a bedroom with an open window; some claim that its scent disrupts sleep and can cause headaches. Allow enough space for this vigorous climber. One of the best uses is to plant it in an evergreen hedge: in winter, its bare branches will blend into the vegetation, while in summer, delicate garlands of lightweight foliage and small white fragrant stars will elegantly adorn it.

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