Morpho-molecular analysis and extended distribution of endemic Jasminum species (Oleaceae)

Abstract Jasmine is widely associated with aromatic applications, pharmaceuticals, phytochemicals and cosmetic industries. Application and proper identification of wild plants are becoming increasingly common globally. A detailed morphological description, domatia characters, foliar epidermal characteristics (crystal, epidermal cell wall pattern, trichome), venation types of three wild, strong aromatic Jasmines with their extended distribution are given here and also provided taxonomic key for differentiating them from related species. The morpho-taxonomic details with some additional key features and molecular characterization were performed here for proper identification. The molecular phylogeny of studied species and their closest taxa is detailed here based on the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) consensus sequence of nuclear-ribosomal DNA and highlights species specific nucleotide variations. Jasminum azoricum L. and J . malabaricum Wight are documented to have extended distribution beyond Western Ghats (India), while J . adenophyllum Wall. ex C.B.Clarke is reported here outside of Assam to Peninsula Malaysia. Critically endangered species J . azoricum is resemblance with J . flexile Vahl, but can be distinguished by the total number of flowers (8–19) per inflorescence; absence of leaf articulation; particular secondary venation type; calyx teeth length; number of petals, sepals. The fruits of J . malabaricum , a species native to the Western Ghat, are consumed by local tribals of Burdwan (India).