Systematics Implications of macromorphological features of Jasminum Species from Egypt

Jasminum L. (Oleaceae) comprises approximately 200 species that are geographically dispersed across tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions worldwide. The comparative taxonomy and evolutionary relationships were evaluated for five species belonging to the genus Jasminum, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative macro-morphological characteristics such as stem habit, nature, surface, shape, structure, and color. The findings of the study revealed a notable similarity between J. grandiflorum and J. sambac, with a similarity index exceeding 92%. Through cluster analysis based on macro-morphology, the Jasminum species were categorized into two primary clusters: the first cluster encompassing J. sambac s, D, and J. nudiflorum, while the second cluster comprised J. azoricum and J. grandiflorum. This classification scheme generally aligns with the relatedness observed among the examined species in terms of morphological variations, thereby partially supporting their systematic classifications. In conclusion, macro-morphological attributes play a pivotal role in characterizing these species and deducing their evolutionary relationships.