The difference between mirabilis and jasmine
In the courtyard on summer nights, two small white flowers exuding fragrance often cause confusion-mirabilis and jasmine. Although they share the name "Jasmine", they hide amazing botanical differences. Through an in-depth comparison in four dimensions, we will reveal the true identity of these "sisters with the same name." The genetic code of the botanical identity family genus Mirabilis jalapa belongs to the perennial herb of the Mirabilis family and has a genetic relationship with plants in the Apricaceae family. Jasminum sambac belongs to the evergreen shrub of the Oleaceae family, in the same family as sweet-scented osmanthus and lilac. Tracing the evolutionary trajectory DNA sequencing shows that the two differentiated 120 million years ago. Mirabilis jalapa retains more primitive angiosperm characteristics, while Jasmine evolved a more complex secondary metabolic system. Morphological characteristics decode plant structure differences. Mirabilis jalapa plants are less than 1 meter tall, fleshy roots store nutrients, and stems are hollow and easy to fold. Jasmine can reach 3 meters high, and its lignified stems are extremely tough and can climb and grow. The difference between Mirabilis jalapa and Jasmine leaf microscopic characteristics The ovoid leaf thickness of Mirabilis jalapa is 0.2- 0.4 mm, and the palisade tissue is arranged in a single layer. Jasmine's elliptical leaves are as thick as 0.6 mm, and the palisade cells have a layered structure. The flower life code flowering biological rhythm Mirabilis jasper opens at 4 p.m. and closes early the next morning. The flowering lasts for 100-120 days. Jasmine blooms from 8 o'clock in the morning and closes in the afternoon, and the blooming period is about 90 days. Flower color formation mechanism Purple Jasmine petals contain betanoid, which show purple, yellow, and white colors through changes in pH value. Jasmine only contains jasmine flavonoids, and its color is locked to pure white. Comparison of ecological value The roots of mirabilis jalapa contain triterpene saponins and are traditional detoxification materials. Jasmine essential oil contains benzyl acetate, and only 1 kilogram of essential oil is extracted for every 8 million flowers. Although both have aroma, the difference in volatile organic compounds is 73%.
Through systematic comparison, it can be seen that this pair of "plants with the same name" have significant differences in terms of genes and applications. Correct identification can not only enhance the ornamental value of gardening, but also avoid the risk of misuse. When planning the courtyard, mirabilis is suitable for decoration of flower borders, and jasmine is suitable for cultivation as hedgerow to show its beauty.