A flowering shrub plant of the Oleaceae family, Jasminum Angustifolium is also called Wild Jasmine, Indian Jasmine, or narrow-leaved jasmine. It is native to Sri Lanka and India, including the Andaman Islands. This climbing shrub has a smooth stem and minute pubescent branches. Like Pink Jasmine, it can reach a height of 6 meters (20 feet). This specie of jasmine is appreciated for its ornamental and aromatic qualities due to its slender leaves, fragrant blossoms, and graceful growth habit. Here, we will explore Jasminum angustifolium’s botanical characteristics, Growing requirements, cultivation in pots, uses, and ecological benefits.

Botanical Characteristics

Order	Lamiales
Family	Oleaceae
Genus	Jasminum
Species	Jasminum Angustifolium

Morphology

Habitat

Originally from the Indian subcontinent, Jasminum angustifolium thrives in the warm climates of India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Typically, it grows in open forests, scrublands, and hilly areas. It is adaptable to a variety of environmental conditions since it needs full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Around the world, it is popular with gardeners and landscapers because of its long-lasting resilience and hardiness.

Leaves

There are dark green leaves that are oppositely arranged. The arrangement of oppositely arranged, simple leaves varies widely from plant to plant. They have elliptic-ovate leaves that are 1-3 cm long and 7-20 mm wide.

There are acute or almost rounded leaves, obtuse bases, or the leaf tips are almost pointed.

Flowers

Flowers measuring one inch across, shaped like stars, are incredibly fragrant. Solitary or three-flowered flowers are most common. There are linear, acute, and obtuse petals. Two carpels usually develop well. It blooms between June and August, measuring about 25 mm in diameter, with seven or eight narrow petals.

Sacred floral offerings and perfumes are made from its flowers. Medicinal properties are also found in the plant’s roots.

Cultivation and Growing Tips

Watering

I always do recommend to water the soil daily during summer, or as soon as it starts to become slightly dry at the top. When the soil becomes slightly dry at the top of the plant, water once every 2 days. Remember, overwatering can cause brown spots and leaf drops, so keep the soil lightly moist at all times.

Thoroughly soak the soil when watering. The best time to water is early in the morning or late in the evening when it is cooler. Check your soil before watering.

Light Requirements

This jasmine grows best in full sun, with a southern exposure. Some direct sunlight is beneficial, but they can be grown in partial sun. It tends to flower more abundantly in the sun. The plant can handle direct and indirect light in the winter.

Temperature

The plant should be placed in shade during the summer season or when the temperature exceeds 45°C. It is possible to directly expose plants to direct or indirect sunlight during the winter months or when the temperature is below 45°C.

Soil Conditions

In its native habitat, this jasmine thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (6.0 to 7.5 pH). It grows well on sandy loams or loamy soils. Make sure that you use a high-quality potting mix that drains well if you’re planning to plant in a container.

Fertilization

Encourage healthy growth and flowering by feeding the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. The best time to fertilize the plants is in the early morning hours when the temperature is low. Phosphorus-rich fertilizers enhance blooming. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can promote more leafy growth, it attracts more insects and can be harmful to flowers.

Jasminum Angustifolium Pruning

Jasminum angustifolium must be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and health. Encourage new growth and a bushier appearance by trimming back old, leggy growth, after the flowering season. Maintain a healthy plant by removing dead or damaged stems on a regular basis.

Propagation

Propagation of Jasminum angustifolium can be done either by cuttings or by layering. It is recommended to take cuttings in early summer and root them in a mixture of sand and peat.

Ideally, layering should be carried out in the early spring. Layering involves bending a low branch down to the ground, covering it with soil, and then separating it from the parent plant after its roots have developed.

Well-drained soil and full sun are ideal conditions for growing the plant.

Jasminum Angustifolium in Pots

Jasminum angustifolium grows well in pots, making it an excellent choice for smaller spaces. Jasmine can be planted in containers in the following ways:

• Ensure that the pot has drainage holes so that the plant’s roots can breathe.
• Use a potting mix that drains well, preferably one that has been amended with sand or perlite.
• It is best to place the pot in a sunny area, such as a south-facing window or balcony.
• Allow excess water to drain from the pot after thoroughly watering the plant.
• A balanced liquid fertilizer should be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Support the plant with a trellis or stake if you want it to climb.

Jasminum Angustifolium Uses

Besides its ornamental value, Jasminum angustifolium also has medicinal, cultural, and ecological benefits:

1. Ornamental Use

Jasminum angustifolium is used in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant and is also used for hedges and screens. Its aesthetic appeal makes it a popular ornamental plant. Among its uses are:

Hedges and Borders: Its dense foliage and fragrant flowers make it an excellent plant for hedges and garden borders.

Trellises and Arbors: Due to its climbable habit, it can be trained on trellises, walls, and arbors to add vertical interest to gardens.

Containers: Jasminum angustifolium is suitable for patios, balconies, and indoor gardens as it is grown in pots and containers.

2. Medicinal Benefits

• The therapeutic properties of Jasminum angustifolium have been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries. Its leaves, flowers, and roots are anti-inflammatory. Skin inflammations and wounds can be treated using extracts from the plant.
• Jasmine flowers contain essential oils that contain antioxidants, which can have a positive effect on reducing the oxidative stress.
• Its sweet aroma helps ease stress and anxiety, as well as promotes relaxation through aromatherapy.

3- Ecological Impact

Ecologically, Jasminum angustifolium plays a crucial role.

• Several pollinators are attracted to the fragrant flowers, including bees, butterflies, and moths, which support biodiversity.
• Garden pests can be controlled by the dense foliage, which provides shelter to beneficial insects.

4- Cultural Importance

India and other South Asian nations hold a special place in the spiritual and cultural practices of Jasminum angustifolium. Religious ceremonies, festivals, and rituals often use flowers. It is commonly used to make garlands, decorate temples, and adorn hair with jasmine flowers, which are symbols of purity, love, and beauty.

Meditation and prayer spaces often feature this plant because its sweet fragrance soothes the mind and spirit. Bridal jewelry and decorations often include jasmine flowers as a symbol of eternal love in Indian weddings.

Conclusion

Any garden or indoor space will benefit from the presence of Jasminum angustifolium. The combination of fragrant flowers, attractive foliage, and low maintenance requirements make it a favorite plant of gardeners.It’s a great addition to any garden or home decor, and it can even be used medicinally. This stunning jasmine species can thrive in the right environment, bring elegance and joy into your home.