Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine)

Native to the Himalayan valleys of northern India, and possibly Persia, finding a home in the tropical and subtropical regions and naturalized in Mauritius, Madagascar, and southern Florida​​. This evergreen shrub or twining shrubby vine, depending on support, boasts small, waxy, white salverform flowers, clustering in groups of 3-12 blooms, each about 1” in diameter, on downy stems clad with broad leaves​. It’s cherished for the captivating fragrance. The blooms are are also utilized in perfumery. Arabian jasmine’s commercial significance doesn’t end at ornamental use and a key ingredient in jasmine tea​. It’s the national flower of the Philippines. The leaf cutting ants love this plant. Photographed in Barranquilla, Colombia.