Jessamine (Jasminum officinale)

Family: Oleaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Jasminum officinale is a deciduous Climber growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour or scent tea. — Flowers - fragrant.; Eaten or used to flavour or scent tea.; The dried flowers are a tea substitute.; An essential oil from the flowers is used as a condiment in various foods, especially Maraschino cherries but also baked goods, ice cream, sweets, chewing gum etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Shrubberies and forests, usually on humus-rich soils, 1200 - 3000 metres in the Himalayas. Valleys, ravines, thickets, woods, along rivers, meadows; 1800 - 4000 metres in W. China. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)