Night-blooming jasmine - Cestrum nocturnum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Night-blooming jasmine

Also known as: Lady of the night, Night-blooming cestrum, Night-scented jessamine

Night-blooming jasmine blooms in the months of summer through fall with tubular white blossoms that give off a distinctive fragrance. As its name implies night-blooming jasmine flowers open only during the nighttime hours and close up tightly during the day. When the flowers are open their perfume can permeate an area from 91 to 152 m.

Scientific classification

Species

Night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

2 m to 3 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm to 1.3 cm

Flower Size

White

Fruit Color

Green, White, Yellow

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Night-blooming jasmine

Distribution of Night-blooming jasmine

Distribution Map

Night-blooming jasmine is a widely cultivated plant with a broad presence, native to regions of Latin America, from Central America down to northern South America. Outside of its native range, night-blooming jasmine has been introduced across major regions, including Asian countries, African nations, some Pacific islands, and even in the New Zealand area. While night-blooming jasmine is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes, in certain areas, particularly in parts of the Pacific such as the Philippines and Fiji, it is sometimes thought to be an ecological concern due to its potential to impact native plant communities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, trailsides, forest gaps, landslides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Although its tubular creamy flowers are attractive, night-blooming jasmine's main feature is its exquisite, almost intoxicating fragrance emitted when it opens at night. That is why this evergreen shrub is best planted near the home entrance or windows, or along the driveway, where passers-by can enjoy this unique perfume. Also, it can be pruned into a fragrant hedge or trained to grow over a trellis, making it an excellent screen plant.

Symbolism

Purity, virginity, and innocence, respect

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Toxicity

Night-blooming jasmine is a toxic plant harmful to humans, cats, and dogs. Every part of night-blooming jasmine is toxic. Ingesting it can cause gastritis, fever, raised pulse, and excess salivation. Smelling it leads to nausea, dizziness, trouble breathing, and headaches. For pets, ingestion causes symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and potential seizures, requiring immediate veterinary care.

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Care Guide for Night-blooming jasmine

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Night-blooming jasmine thrives in humid, moisture-rich environments and prefers consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. Primarily grown outdoors, it benefits from rainwater, supporting healthy growth and fragrant nocturnal blooms.

Fertilize: For optimal health, fertilize night-blooming jasmine bi-monthly with high nitrogen during spring and summer, and use a balanced slow-release blend in fall. Avoid over-fertilization and adjust feeding to quarterly in winter. Apply according to product instructions, ensuring thorough soil integration for effective nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Night-blooming jasmine thrives with strategic early spring pruning to boost growth and blooms. Prioritize removing damaged branches and thinning older stems for better airflow. Light pruning maintains shape; heavy cuts may hinder flowering. Regular care enhances fullness and vibrancy in the garden.

Propagation: Night-blooming jasmine propagation is most effective through cuttings in spring and summer. While moderately challenging, success is marked by new leaf growth. Maintain adequate moisture and warmth for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Repot night-blooming jasmine every 2-3 years in spring using a pot 2-3 inches larger in diameter. After repotting, place night-blooming jasmine in bright, indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist, monitoring for stress to ensure healthy growth.

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Images of Night-blooming jasmine

Distribution of Night-blooming jasmine

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Night-blooming jasmine

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