Jasmine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jasmine |
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Jasminum
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Jasmine (Jasminum) is a genus of shrubs and vines in the Family Oleaceae, with about 200 species, native to tropical and warm temperate regions. The majority of species grow as climbers on other plants or on structures. The leaves can be either evergreen or deciduous.
Jasmine flowers are white in most species, but with some species being yellow flowered. They are often strongly and sweetly scented. Flowering is in spring or summer in most species, but in a few species in winters. The common name 'jasmine' is often given to unrelated plants with pale, sweetly-scented flowers and dark green leaves.
Cultivation and uses
Jasmines are widely cultivated for their flowers, to be enjoyed in the garden, as house plants, and for cut flowers. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and southeast Asia.
Jasmine flowers are also used to make tea, which typically has a green tea base. Many types yield an essential oil, which is used in the production of perfumes and incense.
Jasminum sambac is the National Flower of Indonesia, where it is known as "Melati", and the Philippines, where it is known as the "Sampaguita". In Indonesia (especially the island of Java), it is the most important flower in wedding ceremonies for ethnic Indonesians. Jasminum officinale is the National Flower of Pakistan, where it is known as the "Chambeli".
It is an invasive species in Hawaii, where it is sometimes known by the inaccurate name "Brazilian Jasmine", and is also invasive in Florida.
Images for kids
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Common jasmine
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Green tea with jasmine flowers
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Jasminum sambac "Grand Duke of Tuscany"
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A double-flowered cultivar of Jasminum sambac in flower with an unopened bud.
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Jasmine buds
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Lifecycle of Arabian jasmine flower
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Jasmine flowers
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surface of Jasmine tea
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The White Jasmine Branch, painting of ink and color on silk by Chinese artist Zhao Chang, early 12th century
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Jasmine used as garland
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Jasmine flower blooming
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See also
In Spanish: Jasminum para niños
