The intoxicating fragrance of the Mogra flower and its use in perfumes, essential oils, and tea might have you wanting the plant in your home. But Mogras has more to offer.
So, follow along to learn more about the Mogra flower, its benefits, and ways to grow and harvest them.
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Is Mogra And Jasmine the Same?
Jasmine is an umbrella term for over 200 species under the genus of perennial flowering shrubs, Jasminium. And Mogra plant, known for its alluring fragrance, is among them.
Just like a Pink Jasmine, Mogra (Jasminium sambac) is a Jasmine variety that has tiny white stars-like flowers.
Meanwhile, Mogras is also known as Arabic Jasmine in English, Sampaguita in Tagalog, and Mallipu in Tamil.
How Long Does Mogra Flower Last?
On the plant, Mogra flowers can last up to 1 to 2 days. They usually bloom in the evening and wither the following days.
But you can prolong the shelf life of the Mogra flowers by placing them in water and changing the water daily under ventilated location.
That said, the lifespan of the Mogras depends heavily depends on the environmental conditions. The warmer the surroundings, the dryer the flowers.
Needless to worry, dried Mogras do retain the fragrance for about 3-4 months, making them an excellent choice for crafts.
What Are The Benefits Of Mogra Flower?
The Mogra plant, along with its flower, has all the benefits that any other Jasmine would.
In Asian countries like India, Srilanka, and Bangladesh, Mogra is used as a cut flower for ornamental purposes, given the intoxicating fragrance.
You’ll find women with long Mogra flower extensions on their hair made by weaving the flowers in a white thread.
While they are equally used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries for their medicinal benefits.
Mogra flower or Jasmine contains a phenolic compound that acts as an antioxidant to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Further, the oils from Mogra flowers and the plant extracts are used in skin care products like creams and lotions.
Not to forget the aesthetic benefits of the Mogras and its white cotton-like flowers.
How to Grow Morga Flowers?
Mogra is a warm-season flowering plant and is sensitive to cold temperatures. So plant them in a location where it can receive 68°F to 86°F.
Besides, you need to plant them in a 12-inch terracotta pot so that the roots can have enough space to grow.
- Ensure the plants receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to produce beautiful white blooms. However, protect them from harsh direct sunlight by moving them under shade during hot summer afternoons.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, For that, bottom water the plant, allowing them to sip in sufficient water. But make sure the top 2 inches of soil is dry before each watering.
- Use well-draining soil to prevent soggy soil that can lead to root rot. A commercial soil mix will save you from the DIY hassle.
- Apply a dose of 10-10-10 fertilizer once in the spring and again in the summer to encourage the bloom.
- You may have to prune the plant to help the plant have new growth and flowering at any time of the year, but preferably in the spring and fall.
- Do not forget to deadhead the spent flowers or faded ones to give way for new blooms.
Pro Tip: Avoid pruning the Mogra plants too heavily as it can shock the plants and prevent it from flowering.
From Editorial Team
Harvesting Tips!
The best time to harvest Mogra flowers is in the morning when the fragrance is strongest.
To harvest the flowers, cut the stem close to the flower and be careful not to damage the flower.
You can store them in the refrigerator for a few days to even a week.
