Summer Sizzlers — 2. Jasmine (Hindi Names: Bela, Moti)

2. Jasmine (Hindi Names: Bela, Moti) 

Here’s the Second one. It’s a commonly called ‘Bela’ or 'Jasmine'. 

 Jasmine is an evergreen shrub, that often reaches 5 ft in height in pots. The flowers are used in making perfumes and as a flavoring in tea in China. Jasmine is native to India. This woody shrub features green oval shaped leaves. 

Jasmine Flower full bloom

  The most attractive aspect of this plant is its small, white, star-shaped flowers, which are fragrant and have a wonderfully sweet scent. This ever blooming Jasmine has bushy growth and does particularly well on windowsills. 

• Botanical Name: Jasminum sambac var. 'Maid of Orleans'   
• Common Name: Arabian Jasmine, Bela, Moti, Motiya, Mogra
• Family name: Oleaceae (Jasmine family)
• Plant type: Jasmine is a genus of shrubs and vines in the olive family (Oleaceae). It contains around 200 species native to tropical and warm temperate regions of Asia, Europe, and Africa.
• Light: Prefers full sun though can tolerate partial shade. Blooms prolifically if planted in areas that receives the most sunlight.

Jasmines can be either deciduous (leaves falling in autumn) or evergreen (green all year round), and can be erect, spreading, or climbing shrubs and vines. The flowers are typically around 2.5 cm (0.98 in) in diameter.

  It is well known in Asia for its use in teas and religious observances. Also known as the "Arabian Tea Jasmine," it is the National Flower of the Philippines, where it is known as ‘Sampaguita.’ 

  

Common Uses: 

Widely cultivated for its flowers, jasmine is enjoyed in the garden, as a house plant, and as cut flowers. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and southeast Asia. The delicate jasmine flower opens only at night and may be plucked in the morning when the tiny petals are tightly closed, then stored in a cool place until night.

Enjoy!!