Plants 101

How to Care for a Jasmine Sambac Plant

The Jasmine Sambac (Jasminum sambac), commonly referred to as Arabian Jasmine, is a climbing, evergreen shrub best known for its fragrant flowers.

Back To Blog

Photo by Habib M’henni

The Jasmine Sambac, commonly referred to as Arabian Jasmine, is a climbing, evergreen shrub in the Oleaceae family, native to tropical parts of Asia. Best known for their continuous production of fragrant flowers during the warmer months of the year, Jasmine plants are popular picks for the home and garden. They are also used in traditional medicine, aromatherapy, perfumes, and even tea.

Under optimal conditions, Jasmine Sambac plants can grow as long as nine feet in length and can bloom several times throughout the year. Their flowers usually open up in the late evening and are spent by the following morning.

How much sunlight does Jasmine Sambac need?

Jasmine Sambac thrives in bright indirect light to full sun. It is not suited for low light conditions. South or West windows are ideal. East windows may work but lack of direct sunlight can inhibit flowering. Consider adding grow lights to your space if your home doesn’t provide enough sunlight.

How often should you water Jasmine Sambac?

Water every 1-2 weeks allowing potting mix or soil to dry out about halfway down between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light conditions. Jasmine can tolerate normal room humidity but will benefit from high humidity and produce more flowers. If the air in your home is usually dry and arid, consider boosting humidity levels for your Jasmine to help it thrive.

When should I pot or repot the Jasmine Sambac?

Allow your Jasmine Sambac to acclimate to its new environment for about two weeks before you consider potting or repotting. Any standard, well-draining potting mix works for potting or repotting Jasmine.

What temperature do Jasmine plants need?

Like most common houseplants, Jasmine plants prefer an average indoor temperature of 65°F to 75°F. If you’re comfortable in your space, your houseplants probably are, too. Remember to keep plants away from heating and cooling systems, or open doors and windows, that can cause temperature fluctuations and drafts.

Can you propagate Jasmine plants?

Jasmine plants can be easily propagated by taking stem cuttings during the growing season.

Is the Jasmine Sambac safe for cats and dogs?

The Jasmine Sambac is a non-toxic, pet-friendly plant—making it safe to keep around your furry friends. However, the best practice is always to keep new houseplants out of reach of small children and curious pets.

Is the Jasmine Sambac easy to care for?

Jasmine plants are prone to common plant pests like mealybugs and scale. Treat houseplant pests as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of neem oil or an insecticide, and regular wipe-downs of the infected plant. Other common plant problems you can look out for are:

Mushy or yellow leaves: Overwatered
Drooping leaves, dry potting mix: Thirsty plant, underwatered
Leaf drop, etiolation: Not enough light
Hasn’t flowered: Not enough light, and/or low humidity


Words By The Sill

Empowering all people to be plant people—a collection of articles from The Sill’s team of plant experts across a variety of plant care topics to inspire confidence in the next generation of plant parents. Welcome to Plant Parenthood™.

Do Some Plant Shopping