**Jasmine** and **Nithya Malli** are often used interchangeably in many parts of India and the broader tropical region, but they can refer to different species or varieties of jasmine, each with its own characteristics. Here's a detailed description of both:

### **Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)**:

The term **"Jasmine"** refers to a genus of over 200 species in the **Oleaceae** family. Several varieties of jasmine are commonly grown for their fragrant flowers, including the popular **Jasminum sambac** (Arabian jasmine), **Jasminum grandiflorum**, and **Jasminum officinale**.

- **Size**: Jasmine plants can range from low-growing shrubs to climbing vines, depending on the species. They can grow from 1 to 4 meters (3 to 13 feet) in height when allowed to climb or spread out as shrubs.

- **Leaves**: The leaves are typically dark green, glossy, and simple, often with a smooth edge. They are generally ovate or lance-shaped and have a fragrant aroma when crushed.

- **Flowers**: Jasmine flowers are usually small, with a star-like shape and five petals. The colors range from white to pale yellow, pink, or even red, depending on the species. The flowers are highly fragrant and bloom mostly in the evening or night, which is why jasmine is sometimes called a "night-blooming" plant.

- **Fragrance**: The strong, sweet fragrance of jasmine flowers is highly prized and is often used in perfumes, essential oils, and traditional garlands. The fragrance is most potent at night.

- **Growth Habit**: Jasmine plants can be either bushy shrubs or climbers. They prefer warm, sunny climates and are often grown in gardens or as houseplants in pots or hanging baskets.

### **Nithya Malli (Jasminum sambac)**:

**Nithya Malli** is the name used for a specific variety of **Jasminum sambac**, commonly known as **Arabian Jasmine** or **Mogra** in India. "Nithya" means "daily" in Sanskrit, and "Malli" refers to jasmine in some South Indian languages, thus **"Nithya Malli"** translates to **"Daily Jasmine"**, reflecting the plant's frequent blooming nature.

- **Size**: Nithya Malli is a compact shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall. It is often cultivated as a bush but can also be trained to grow as a small climber.

- **Leaves**: The leaves are dark green, smooth, and glossy. They are ovate in shape, with a pointed tip and are usually about 3 to 6 cm long.

- **Flowers**: The flowers of Nithya Malli are typically small, white, and highly fragrant. Each flower has 5 to 9 petals, and they form in clusters. The petals are often creamy or slightly waxy and may curl back at the edges. The flowers are known for their intense fragrance and are commonly used for making garlands.

- **Fragrance**: The fragrance is sweet, intoxicating, and highly valued. Nithya Malli flowers bloom profusely, and their fragrance is especially strong in the morning and evening.

- **Growth Habit**: Nithya Malli is a relatively low-maintenance shrub that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and can tolerate a variety of growing conditions. The plant is often cultivated in gardens or as potted plants due to its compact growth.

### **Common Features of Jasmine and Nithya Malli**:

- **Climatic Requirements**: Both jasmine (Jasminum spp.) and Nithya Malli thrive in warm, sunny climates with moderate watering and well-drained soil.

- **Cultural Importance**: Both are culturally significant, particularly in South Asia. Nithya Malli, with its sweet-smelling blooms, is commonly used in religious and cultural rituals, in making garlands, and as a natural air freshener.

- **Uses**: The flowers are often harvested for personal use or for commercial purposes such as perfume production, essential oils, and incense. Nithya Malli, specifically, is also used in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties, particularly for its cooling and calming effects.

### Differences:

- **Species**: While "Jasmine" can refer to many species within the **Jasminum** genus, **Nithya Malli** specifically refers to **Jasminum sambac**, a particular variety known for its frequent blooming and fragrant flowers.

- **Growth Habit**: Jasmine species can have a variety of growth habits (climbers, shrubs, or small trees), while Nithya Malli is generally a more compact, bushy variety of jasmine.

- **Fragrance**: Nithya Malli, specifically, is renowned for its exceptionally strong and sweet fragrance, making it especially popular for cultural and ceremonial purposes.

In short, **Nithya Malli** is a specific variety of **Jasmine**, and both plants are cherished for their beautiful and aromatic flowers, making them ideal for ornamental gardens and traditional uses.