12/06/2025
Did you know the Sampaguita is not native to the Philippines? and that the country itself has 13 native Jasminum species?
Speculations are, that it might have reached the Philippines through trade during the 17th century, all the way from the Himalayas, but not instantaneously. Kind of like how the Tea plant started from China to India and United Kingdom or the Tulip from Iran to Netherlands.
Below is the Common Malayan Jasmine (Jasminum elongatum), one of the 13 species native to the Philippines. Compared to the Sampaguita, the flower of the Malayan Jasmine are akin to the Star Jasmine (J. multiflorum), the difference is, the Malayan Jasmine is vining. Took a year for this plant to bloom, I guess the leaf cutter bees are getting impatient. Some bees do this, cutting the leaves of the plant, to force the plant to bloom earlier. Fragrance is also similar to the Star jasmine.
I don't know why the Philippine government isn't cultivating its own native plants yet, while countries like USA, Singapore and UK are cultivating our native plants for us like the Jade vine. Adding to the problem, vast number of exotic species are proliferating across the country due to irresponsible gardening/landscaping. Hopefully, I can successfully propagate 100 seedlings of this jasmine, and distribute this among other enthusiasts and environmentalist; so far I've managed to make 3 cuttings sprout. In this way, not only do we help our local flora and fauna, but also repair the damage done to our local environment by colonialism and capitalism.
