Jasmine, a word that originates from the Persian "yasmeen", meaning "gift from God", has been treasured in Syria for generations and still flourishes in the country today.

The country's capital Damascus is nicknamed "the city of Jasmine" because of how common the flower is there, covering walls and found in parks.

With soft white or yellow petals, the flower has been cultivated to make oils used in perfumes and cosmetics for centuries.

The growth and export of the flower, which is native to tropical and subtropical areas of Eurasia and Oceania, once contributed substantially to the Syrian economy until the start of the war in Syria in 2011.

A testament to the flower's cultural significance is the popularity of names like Yasmin or Jasmine, which are derived from the name of the flower.

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