primrose jasmine

plant

Also known as: Jasminum mesnyi

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Primrose jasmine, scientifically known as Jasminum mesnyi, is an evergreen shrub native to China. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its yellow flowers, which have a darker center.1

Jasmine, in general, belongs to the genus Jasminum and comprises about 200 species of fragrant-flowered shrubs and vines in the olive family. These plants are found in tropical and temperate regions of the Old World. Jasmine flowers are typically white, yellow, or sometimes pink, with a tubular shape and a pinwheel-like petal formation. The leaves can be evergreen or deciduous and are usually compound. The fruit is generally a two-lobed black berry.2

While Jasminum mesnyi is specifically called primrose jasmine, other plants are also referred to as "jasmine" despite belonging to different plant families.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

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jasmine
Major species
Japanese, or primrose, jasmine (J. mesnyi) is a similar plant with larger flowers that bloom during the winter. Italian jasmine (J. humile), a vinelike shrub with yellow flowers, has many cultivated varieties. The fragrant dried flowers of Arabian jasmine (J. sambac) are used to make jasmine tea.
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Japanese, or primrose, jasmine (J. mesnyi) is a similar plant with larger flowers that bloom during the winter. Italian jasmine (J. humile), a vinelike shrub with yellow flowers, has many cultivated varieties. The fragrant dried flowers of Arabian jasmine (J. sambac) are used to make jasmine tea.
Read More