Arabian jasmine (Jasminum sambac)

Also known as: White-flowered Indian jasmine, Pikake

Arabian jasmine holds cultural importance in several countries. Notably, it is the national flower of both the Philippines and Indonesia. In Sri Lanka, it is commonly used in ceremonial attire and decorations. In China, it is a crucial component of Jasmine tea. In Hawaii, it's used to create aromatic leis, while in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India, it is often used in garlands and for adorning hair.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Arabian jasmine

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

50 cm to 1 m

Spread

1.8 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Arabian jasmine

Quickly Identify Arabian jasmine

Jasminum sambac can be identified by its small white flowers that are often highly fragrant. The leaves are oval, shiny, and dark green. It is a climbing shrub that can be trained to a trellis or allowed to sprawl.

Scientific Classification of Arabian jasmine

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Olive

Genus

Jasmine

Species

Arabian jasmine

Planting and Growing of Arabian jasmine

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Arabian jasmine?

Jasminum sambac, also known as Arabian Jasmine, thrives best when its soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. This means the watering should be deep enough to reach down to the root zone without excess water pooling. Aim for about 500 milliliters per watering session, ensuring the water seeps through the soil uniformly.

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More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Arabian jasmine?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours daily

Partial to full sun exposure is ideal for Jasminum sambac. This light condition ensures robust flowering and healthy growth, showcasing its full potential with ample blooms and fragrance.

What kind of light does Jasminum sambac need? ›

How to ensure they get enough light? ›

Benefits of getting ideal lighting for Jasmine? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Arabian jasmine?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

The ideal temperature range for Jasminum sambac is between 65°F and 80°F. These temperatures provide the optimal conditions for growth, flowering, and leaf development. Keeping the plant within this range ensures that its physiological processes function efficiently, promoting overall health and vigorous growth.

What Soil is Best for Arabian jasmine?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

The soil should provide excellent drainage for Jasminum sambac to prevent root rot. Well-drained soil ensures that the roots receive adequate oxygen, essential for the plant's health and vigor. Jasminum sambac thrives in nutrient-rich soil that supports robust growth and flowering. A soil mix that's rich in organic matter, including compost or well-rotted manure, provides the essential nutrients needed. Though good drainage is crucial, the soil should also be capable of retaining some moisture to keep the plant hydrated, especially during dry spells. This balance helps maintain plant health without risking waterlogging. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Arabian jasmine?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Jasminum sambac, the ideal fertilizer amount depends on its growth stage. Young plants require less fertilizer, so use a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Mature plants, flourishing with growth and blooms, can handle full-strength doses. Always follow the product's label instructions to avoid over-fertilization. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Arabian jasmine?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

To prune Jasminum sambac, start by identifying any dead or diseased branches and removing them at their base. Then, shape the plant by trimming back overgrown areas to maintain its desired size and form. Always use sharp, sterilized shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node. This encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to prevent the plant from developing seeds and instead channel energy into producing more blooms. Simply pinch off the flower's stem where it meets the leaf junction. This will also help keep your plant looking tidy and fresh. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Arabian jasmine plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Choose healthy stems with no signs of disease. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long, with at least two leaves.

Remove leaves from the lower part of the cutting to prevent them from touching the rooting medium. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone if desired.

Insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the cutting is stable and water it lightly to maintain moisture without waterlogging.

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How to Repot Arabian jasmine plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Jasminum sambac should be repotted when its roots become visible at the drainage holes, signaling the plant has outgrown its current container. Another indicator is when the soil dries out too quickly after watering. The best time to repot is during early spring when the plant is poised to enter its growth phase.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one with ample drainage holes. The increased size provides the roots with room to grow while ensuring adequate drainage, crucial for preventing waterlogged soil, which jasmines dislike. Pot material can be terracotta, allowing some breathability, beneficial in maintaining soil moisture balance.

Opt for a soil that is rich in organic matter but well-draining to prevent root rot. A mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil is ideal. This composition retains enough moisture for the jasmine to thrive while ensuring excess water can escape, keeping the roots healthy and promoting vigorous growth.

More About Repotting Techniques→