Jasmine Flowers

Jasmine flowers are starry, mostly white, intensely fragrant blooms from the Jasminum genus (Oleaceae). Valued in perfumery, tea, and ornamental gardens, jasmines range from twining vines to compact shrubs and release their richest scent at dusk.

Occasions & recipients - Find flowers by occasion

Best occasions

  • Weddings
  • Anniversaries
  • Romantic gestures
  • Religious ceremonies/festivals
  • Housewarming
  • Thank you/appreciation

Who to Give to

  • Spouse/partner
  • Close friend
  • Parents/elders
  • Mentor/teacher
  • Host/hostess

Card Message Ideas

  • With every blossom, my thoughts of you grow sweeter—like jasmine at night.
  • May this jasmine’s purity and grace bring calm and joy to your home.
  • For our anniversary: a scent to remember and a love that endures.
  • A small bundle of serenity—may its fragrance brighten your day.
  • To a cherished friend: simple, pure, and beautiful—like you.

Presentation Etiquette

Keep arrangements understated so the fragrance doesn’t overwhelm; pair with airy greenery. Provide water and care instructions. Be mindful of cultural contexts—white jasmine garlands can be used for both weddings and funerals in some regions; clarify intent and setting.

Ideal Delivery Time

Early morning or evening (fragrance is strongest at dusk). Deliver fresh and promptly; avoid strongly scent-sensitive environments (e.g., hospitals).

At a glance

Key details

Quick reference for key details choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients. Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.

Distribution

Native to South and Southeast Asia, China, and parts of the Middle East and Africa; widely cultivated and naturalized in the Mediterranean, subtropical Americas, and Oceania.
Source from sustainable, pesticide-conscious growers; avoid wild-harvesting. Choose local/seasonal supply, support pollinator-friendly practices, and compost spent blooms.
Most Jasminum species are considered non-toxic to humans and pets; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Concentrated essential oils can irritate skin. Do not confuse true jasmines with toxic lookalikes such as yellow jasmine (Gelsemium) or false jasmine (Cestrum), which are poisonous.
Generally low pollen allergenicity, but the intense fragrance can trigger headaches or asthma in sensitive individuals; essential oils may cause contact dermatitis. Use sparingly in hospitals or scent-sensitive settings.
Kingdom Plantae; Order Lamiales; Family Oleaceae; Genus Jasminum; Common species: Jasminum sambac (Arabian jasmine), Jasminum officinale (common jasmine), Jasminum grandiflorum (Spanish jasmine).

Meaning, symbolism & taboos

Across cultures, jasmine signifies pure, devoted love and spiritual grace. In the Philippines (sampaguita), it symbolizes fidelity and purity; in South Asia, it is offered to deities and worn in hair for auspicious occasions, embodying sensuality and divine love; in Persian and Arab traditions, it evokes hospitality and elegance. Its night-released perfume suggests romance, serenity, and the mystery of the evening.

Symbolizes

  • Love
  • Purity
  • Grace
  • Beauty
  • Fidelity
  • Spirituality

Color taboos

  • Pure white flowers can symbolize mourning in parts of East Asia (e.g., China, Korea).
  • In South Asia, white garlands may be associated with funerals as well as auspicious events—use context-sensitive presentation.
  • Avoid heavily dyed or artificial colors for traditional or religious ceremonies.

Growing & tools

Care & gear

Growing tips

Warm-climate evergreen/deciduous vines or shrubs. Provide full sun to bright partial shade (4–6+ hours), fertile well-drained soil (pH ~6.0–7.5), and regular moisture without waterlogging. Feed lightly in spring–summer. Prune after flowering to shape and encourage new blooms; deadhead spent flowers. Train vining types on a trellis; pinch tips for bushier growth. Protect from frost (many species hardy only to USDA zones 9–11; J. officinale can tolerate ~7–10). Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings or layering.

Recommended tools

  • Pruning shears
  • Trellis or obelisk
  • Soft plant ties
  • Well-draining pot/planter
  • Watering can or drip hose