Arabian jasmine

plant

Also known as: Jasminum sambac

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

Arabian jasmine, also known as Jasminum sambac, is an East Indian vine cultivated for its fragrant white flowers. It belongs to the genus Jasminum, which includes about 200 species of fragrant-flowered shrubs and vines in the olive family. These plants are native to tropical and temperate regions of the Old World.12

The flowers of Jasminum species are typically white, yellow, or sometimes pink, with a tubular shape and a flaring, pinwheel-like form. Arabian jasmine's dried flowers are notably used to make jasmine tea. While many plants are called "jasmine," true jasmine belongs to the Jasminum genus.2

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Oleaceae
The flowers of Jasminum sambac are used for making necklaces, or leis, in Hawaii. Lilacs, jasmines, and Osmanthus are especially noted for their sweetly fragrant flowers. Osmanthus and a few species of jasmines are prized in China and Japan, where their dried flowers are used to scent certain…
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The flowers of Jasminum sambac are used for making necklaces, or leis, in Hawaii. Lilacs, jasmines, and Osmanthus are especially noted for their sweetly fragrant flowers. Osmanthus and a few species of jasmines are prized in China and Japan, where their dried flowers are used to scent certain…
Read More

jasmine
Major species
The fragrant dried flowers of Arabian jasmine (J. sambac) are used to make jasmine tea.
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The fragrant dried flowers of Arabian jasmine (J. sambac) are used to make jasmine tea.
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