America's favorite rice. Mahatma Jasmine a long grain rice variety which is recognized by its fragrant or aromatic qualities. Grown in the mountain highlands of Thailand for centuries, Jasmine rice was cultivated for the royalty of the Kingdom of Siam. Named after the sweet smelling Jasmine flower of the Southeast Asia, Jasmine rice has a naturally distinctive scent, released during the cooking process, and is likened to a flowery perfume.