Yellow Jasmine
Jasminum humile

Family: Oleaceae

What it is like

Jasminum humile is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 3

Where it is found

Scrub and dry valleys, 1500 - 3000 metres in the Himalayas. Also found in forests in Srinagar.

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

The leaves are used as a condiment. A tea is made from the leaves and bark.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The flowers are astringent and a tonic for the heart and bowels. A paste made frm the flowers is considered effective in the treatment of intestinal problems. The juice of the root is used in the treatment of ringworm. The milky juice of the plant is used for destroying the unhealthy lining walls of chronic sinuses and fistulas.

Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.

Cardiotonic: A tonic for the heart.

Decongestant: Removes phlegm and mucous, especially from the respiratory system.

Parasiticide: Treats external parasites such as ringworm This should perhaps be joined with Parasiticide in

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.

Other

Rating:

Wood - even-grained, moderately hard.

Parasiticide: Kills external body parasites such as hair lice.

Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in a good well-drained loam in a sunny position. Tolerates light shade. Tolerates most soil types, including dry soils once it is established. This species is not very cold hardy, tolerating temperatures down to about -10°c. It requires some protection such as a warm wall when grown outdoors in Britain. There are some named varieties selected for their ornamental value. The flowers are slightly scented. Plants produce suckers and these can sometimes be invasive. Pruning can be carried out in early to mid spring. Removing one third of the oldest growth down to ground level rejuvenates the plant and encourages greater flowering. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Very easy. Cuttings of mature wood in November. Layering.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 7-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

J. bignoniaceum. Wall.