Juhi Jasmine

Jasminum auriculatum, affectionately known as Juhi Jasmine or Mulla, is a highly aromatic, scrambling evergreen shrub or woody vine belonging to the Oleaceae (Olive) family. Native primarily to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, it is globally celebrated not for the sheer size of its flowers, but for their intensely sweet, heavy fragrance that aggressively and beautifully perfumes the warm, humid evening air.

Identification of Juhi is defined by its tiny, star-shaped, brilliant white flowers that grow in dense, branching clusters (botanically known as cymes). The flowers are tubular at the base before spreading into 5 to 8 distinct, sharply pointed lobes. The foliage consists of simple, ovate, dark green leaves. Unlike many climbing jasmines, Juhi tends to have a more bushy, scrambling habit unless it is specifically trained onto a trellis or fence.

The floral formula is ⊕ ⚥ K(5-8) C(5-8) A2 G(2). It features a radially symmetrical, bisexual flower. It has a fused calyx with 5-8 small lobes, a tubular corolla with 5-8 spreading lobes, and a superior ovary made of 2 fused carpels. A defining botanical characteristic of the Oleaceae family—and this jasmine—is the severe reduction of stamens to only 2.

Growing Juhi Jasmine requires mimicking its tropical origins. It demands intense, full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily) and high heat to bloom prolifically. It requires rich, well-draining soil and regular, deep watering during its active growing season. It is highly frost-sensitive; it can be grown outdoors year-round only in USDA zones 9-11 and must be brought indoors or heavily protected in colder regions.

Culturally, Juhi is deeply entrenched in Indian tradition and Ayurveda. The highly fragrant flowers are utilized extensively in the global perfume industry for essential oils. Regionally, the fresh blooms are painstakingly woven into intricate, fragrant garlands (gajras) worn in hair by women during weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies.

Importantly for home gardeners, Juhi Jasmine is completely NON-TOXIC. It is safe to plant around dogs, cats, and horses. (Note: True jasmines in the Jasminum genus are safe, unlike the highly poisonous 'Carolina Jasmine' or 'Night-Blooming Jasmine', which belong to completely different botanical families and share only the name).

Visually, it is very similar to the Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac). However, Juhi flowers are generally much smaller, more pointedly star-shaped, and the plant has a bushier, less aggressive vining habit. Contrast its intense, sweet fragrance with the visually striking but scentless Moon Orchid or explore our Flower Identifier.