Although there are about 200 different species of this flower, three of
the most common consist of the white, yellow and Japanese varieties.
These plants can grow up to 15 feet in their life span, and most of the
vine varieties are considered healthy ‘climbers.’ These vines can grow
onto other plants or be trained to grow through picket fences, shrubs,
or around artfully arranged pieces of chicken wire.
The jasmine flower has been used for ages in a variety of ways. Not only
is this flower considered a beautiful plant to keep in the garden, it
is also frequently used to adorn woman’s hair and clothing. They have
been used to scent green tea leaves; to create delightfully floral
pastries, and the scent can be extracted to create essential oils with
both healing and aphrodisiac-like properties.
As a gift, jasmine flowers can be given in a variety of ways, and hold a
variety of meanings. In China the jasmine flower is considered the
ideal emblem for feminine kindness. In other areas these flowers are
thought to indicate grace and delicacy, as well as sensuality and
cheerfulness. They are thought to attract wealth and romantic
attachments.
They make great gifts for those you have a special fondness for; someone
who enjoys rich floral fragrances, or even someone who is something of a
night owl, as some varieties of this flower tend to open up and show
their full beauty late at night.
