Jasminum officinalis Affinis - Common jasmine

Jasminum officinale f. Affine or 'Affinis', also known as Jasminum 'Grandiflorum', is even more decorative than the common jasmine or typical white jasmine, due to its more numerous and larger flowers, white with pink undersides, born from pink buds. Like the white jasmine, it is deciduous, relatively hardy, and blooms throughout the summer in successive waves, with a very beautiful fragrance. This bushy climber perfumes a whole area of the garden or even a large terrace on summer evenings. It is really easy to grow in ordinary, but well-drained soil. It deserves a place in the scented garden, in an evergreen hedge, or in a large pot on the balcony or terrace.

The 'Affinis' Jasmine belongs to the Oleaceae family. The typical form originates from China, specifically from the Himalayan regions, and grows in woods, hedges, and along rivers. Relatively hardy, this jasmine is easily cultivated in the ground in areas where the temperature does not drop below -12°C (10.4°F) for short periods. This Affinis form will reach an average height of 6m (20ft) under favourable conditions and will spread over 1m (3ft), 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 rest in August and resumes in September with the return of rain. The plant is covered with numerous small clusters of pink-red buds that open into star-shaped flowers, 4cm (2in) in diameter, ivory white with a touch of pink on the reverse, with an almost intoxicating fragrance. The foliage consists of pinnate leaves with 5 or 7 small leaflets, bright green, deciduous below -5/-6°C (23/21.2°F) but 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 Affine climbs up 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 fragrance disrupts sleep and can cause headaches. Allow some space for this vigorous liana. One of the best uses is to plant it in an evergreen hedge: in winter, its bare branches will blend in with the vegetation, while in summer, delicate garlands of light foliage and small, fragrant white stars will elegantly adorn it.

Its highly fragrant flowers are used in perfumery, to scent 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.