Night-blooming jasmine

cestrum nocturnum

Also known as: ["Night-blooming jessamine","Queen of the Night","Poisonberry"]

Family: Solanaceae Genus: Cestrum Category: Flowers

Overview

A tropical evergreen shrub known for its intensely fragrant white flowers that bloom at night.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Cestrum
Botanical Name: Cestrum nocturnum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot in cooler regions with bright light
  • Suitable For:
    Fragrance Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter and sand/perlite
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in filtered light if indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, fertile soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is balanced.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing

Environment

High humidity, warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand

Hormone

Recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems to encourage branching; remove old or leggy growth

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth; best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, wilting, or yellowing in cold; stunted growth or bud drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 40°F.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; mist foliage to cool.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Cestrum nocturnum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cestrum nocturnum can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Cestrum nocturnum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Cestrum nocturnum due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Cestrum nocturnum. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, potentially leading to serious health complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors seizures difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Cestrum nocturnum can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological symptoms due to the plant's toxic compounds. The alkaloids present can affect the central nervous system and digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Cestrum nocturnum contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects upon ingestion. The plant's effects are primarily due to the presence of alkaloids and other bioactive substances that disrupt normal physiological functions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness confusion
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep away from children and avoid ingestion. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Cestrum nocturnum bloom at night?

A: The plant evolved to attract nocturnal pollinators such as moths, which are active during the night.

Q: Is Cestrum nocturnum safe for pets?

A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Cestrum nocturnum?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Quick Reference
Family: Solanaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["fragrance lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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