Mogra (Arabian Jasmine) in 8″ Pot

An evergreen shrub or scandent vine, 1–3 m (3–10 ft) tall (can reach 5 m when supported). Stems are slender, slightly woody; sap is clear, not milky. Leaves are opposite, simple, glossy deep green, ovate to elliptic, 4–12.5 cm × 2–7.5 cm, with entire margins and prominent veins; often slightly wavy. Flowers are produced in clusters of 3–12 (or singly) from spring through autumn (year-round in warm climates). Blooms are white, 2–3 cm across, intensely sweet (jasmine-like), opening in late evening and closing by morning. Forms include single (5–9 petals, starry), semi-double and double (multi-layered, “Motiya”/“Grand Duke” types). Common cultivars: ‘Motia’ (double), ‘Grand Duke of Tuscany’ (fully double, slow-growing), ‘Belle of India’ (double, elongated petals), ‘Maid of Orleans’ (single). Fruit are small black berries (rarely seen in cultivation). Used for garlands, worship, tea, perfume, and essential oil.

Quick care: full sun to partial sun (≥4–6 hrs; more sun = more flowers; provide afternoon shade in very hot, dry climates). Warmth lover 20–32 °C (68–90 °F); USDA 9–11 outdoors, otherwise grow in containers and overwinter indoors above 15 °C (60 °F). Soil rich, moist but well-drained—loam with compost and sand/perlite; pH 6–7. Water regularly: keep evenly moist, allow top 2–5 cm to dry between waterings; reduce in winter. High humidity helps. Feed every 2–4 weeks in spring–summer with balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or bloom booster (higher P). Pinch tips and prune lightly after flushes to encourage branching; train on trellis or keep bushy. Propagate by semi-ripe stem cuttings, layering, or division. Watch for aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, spider mites, and leaf spot in humid conditions.