The word jasmine comes from the Persian word yasmin . Climbing plant with flowers that constitutes the genus Jasminum , it is one of the largest of the Oleaceae family ( Oleaceae ), and includes about 350 perennial and deciduous species. The common jasmine is Jasminum officinale ; There are others widely used such as the western or royal jasmine, Jasminum grandiflorum ; the Arabic, J asminum sambac , and Jasminum nudiflorum .
Jasmine belongs to a genus that includes rustic and delicate plants, evergreen and deciduous foliage, shrubs and vines, it gives exquisitely scented flowers. Its leaves are usually pinnate, and the flowers are white in most cases. The fruit is a bilobed berry.
Originally from Central Asia (China, India and Persia), it first arrived in southern Europe in the mid-sixteenth century, acclimating very well, since then it is difficult to imagine a garden without it.
This plant requires a lot of space to develop, needing a lot of sun and a lot of water. Most of its varieties can live without problems in somewhat more northern latitudes, as long as they are sheltered from winds and frosts, but some must be grown in a greenhouse.
Jasmine has a highly developed root system, so the use of large pots and lots of soil is recommended. It reproduces by cutting and flowers in August-September, its flowering is not complete until after two years of grafting.
The world production per year of jasmine is approximately 15-20 tons, Egypt is the largest producer, exports 6-8 tons, followed by Morocco, India, France, Italy and China.
This species is widely produced and exported because it is one of the most important plants for the perfume industry, especially in air fresheners, as it has a very pleasant delicate aroma. It is also used in aromatherapy, as an essential oil and medicinally as an infusion; has a popular use against bronchial colds and as a general stimulant.
