CESTRUM NOCTURNUM – NIGHT BLOOMING JASMINE

Cestrum nocturnum is a tender evergreen shrub, native to the subtropical climates of Mexico, Central America, the West Indies and Cuba. It is not a true Jasmine, but is in fact a member of the same family as tomatoes and peppers.

Night-blooming Jasmine can quickly form a mound of foliage up to 2–3 meter high, and 1–2 meter across. This plant has long, slender, arching branches springing densely from the base. All parts of the plant are poisonous, and its fragrance can be overwhelming to some people, especially those with allergies

Clusters of slender, pale green-white flowers appear in late summer and autumn, strongly and sweetly perfumed at night but scentless during the day. The flowers are followed by berries that are green at first but a glossy china white when ripe in early winter.

Propagation Is from seed or from herbaceus stem cuttings. Cestrum nocturnum is sensitive to frost, it only can stand -4˚C for a short period.

In landscape is useful in a mixed shrub border. The fragrance is most noticeable at night, intelligence gardeners strategically place this plant where the scent can be enjoyed in the evening.