Parijat, Night-flowering jasmine, Tree of sorrow
nyctanthes arbor-tristis
Also known as: ["Parijat","Sherish","Harsingar"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its fragrant, white to orange flowers that bloom at night and fall off by morning.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Genus: | Nyctanthes |
| Botanical Name: | Nyctanthes arbor-tristis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with morning sun and afternoon shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter and perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window; outdoors, provide dappled shade in peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize during active growth; dilute to prevent burn; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting the foliage. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover with a frost cloth if outdoors in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop due to excessive transpiration and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, particularly the seeds or berries. The toxicity is generally low, but monitoring is recommended.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis seeds or berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant does not typically cause severe toxicity, but caution is advised due to individual sensitivities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicNyctanthes arbor-tristis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in significant amounts. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort, though severe cases may involve more systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do the flowers fall off in the morning?
A: The flowers are short-lived and naturally shed after blooming at night.
Q: Is this plant suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It can be grown indoors in a well-lit area but prefers outdoor conditions.
Q: Does it require special care?
A: It needs moderate watering and well-drained soil, but is generally hardy once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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