Star jasmine (Jasminum nitidum) – a potential loose flower

Star jasmine or shiny jasmine (Jasminum nitidum) is a potential loose flower and known for its year round production. The origin of this species is Admiralty Islands of Papua New Guinea. Since the geographical origin of the species is from Island, this is well adapted to grow in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The flowers are very attractive, mild fragrant and produced in clusters. The flower buds are dark purplish in colour when immature and the colour is changed to pinkish purple as they mature. Opened flowers are snow white and star shaped flower with 10 petals which are leaner, longer and spread out. Open sunny situation is best for cultivation of this flower crop for quality flower production. This crop can be grown in open field and also in pots. The spacing to be adopted is 75 cm between plants and 1.0 m between rows. The plant is propagated through air layering and cuttings. Flower buds will initiate six months after planting, however, the economic yield will be obtained from second year onwards.The yield per plant is 2 -2.5 Kg per plant (two years after planting). Heavy bloom is produced during summer in Island conditions. The harvesting stage is the matured bold bud stage with pink tinge.

Benefit:Jasminum nitidum is a versatile crop with wide commercial utilities and hence will be one of the potential crop to exploit in the Island.

Source : Contact person with Name, Designation e-mail and phone no: Dr. V. Baskaran, Principal Scientist Email:V.Baskaran@icar.gov.in Phone: 9933292110