Night jessamine (Cestrum nocturnum)
Experience the intense nighttime fragrance of Night jessamine (Cestrum nocturnum), a low-maintenance evergreen shrub perfect for warm landscapes.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The captivating true star of the evening garden is Cestrum nocturnum, widely known as Night jessamine. This broadleaf evergreen delights gardeners with an intense, sweet fragrance released exclusively after sunset from its creamy white tubular flowers. It is highly valued for transforming warm evenings into aromatic experiences, drawing in night-flying pollinators.
Native to the West Indies, Cestrum nocturnum thrives in tropical and subtropical environments, offering dense foliage and continuous seasonal blooming when happy. While its scent is its primary calling card, this species also provides functional screening or hedging capabilities when mature.
Despite its magnificent perfume, gardeners in cooler climates should note that Cestrum nocturnum requires protection or container culture, as large temperature swings can diminish its signature fragrance. Its low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for those seeking dramatic evening impact without daily upkeep.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Solanaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Native Range: West Indies
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 3-13 ft
- Spread: 3-13 ft
- Bloom Time: Flowers freely
- Bloom Description: Creamy white to pale green
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
For optimal performance, plant Cestrum nocturnum where it receives full sun, although it tolerates light afternoon shade. This shrub prefers rich, well-draining soil that remains consistently moist. Planting during warmer, frost-free periods is ideal to establish the root system well before colder weather threatens its tropical nature.
Water needs are medium; aim for evenly moist soil conditions, avoiding overwatering which can lead to root rot. Since this plant takes well to pruning, maintain its desired shape and size, especially when used as a screen or hedge. Remember that extreme temperature shifts, particularly sharp nighttime drops, can significantly reduce the intensity of the flower fragrance.
Container-grown specimens offer flexibility, allowing overwintering indoors, ideally positioned near a sunny, south-facing window to capture maximum light. Propagate this beautiful species using simple stem cuttings taken from healthy, established plants.
Landscape Uses
The versatile nature of Night jessamine allows it to serve multiple roles in the tropical landscape. It is exceptionally well-suited for use as a dense hedge or screen, providing year-round structure and privacy. Alternatively, plant it near patios, walkways, or entryways where the nighttime perfume can be fully appreciated.
As an accent plant in shrub borders, Cestrum nocturnum adds height and unexpected evening drama wherever it is placed. For those in marginal zones, thriving container plantings can be treated as high-impact annuals or moved indoors for the winter months.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Fragrant
Noteworthy Characteristics
The specific epithet nocturnum directly translates to “at night,” perfectly describing this shrub’s primary trait: releasing intensely fragrant blooms after dark, attracting moths for pollination. Native to the West Indies, this evergreen can mature quite large, reaching up to 13 feet tall with a similar spread, featuring slender, arching branches and simple elliptic leaves. Although often called night jessamine, it is unrelated to true jasmine plants.
Tolerances
- Takes well to pruning
Potential Problems
Manage pests like whiteflies, aphids, and spider mites through regular inspection and targeted horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps. The most critical cultural issue to avoid is waterlogging; poorly drained, saturated soils are a pathway to fatal root rot for Cestrum nocturnum.
Be highly aware that the foliage and fruits of this species are poisonous if ingested. Furthermore, in certain regions, particularly Oceania (including Australia and New Zealand), this plant has proven invasive, forming dense thickets that displace native vegetation, necessitating responsible horticultural practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Night jessamine suitable for?
This durable shrub is hardy in USDA Zones 9 through 11, requiring protection or indoor placement outside these ranges.
How large does Cestrum nocturnum grow?
Mature plants typically reach heights and spreads between 3 and 13 feet, often exhibiting an upright, spreading habit.
What sun exposure does Cestrum nocturnum need?
It thrives best in full sun for the most vigorous blooming, though it can tolerate partial shade conditions.
When does Night jessamine bloom?
This plant blooms freely, producing its creamy white to pale green flowers primarily during the evening hours.
Conclusion
Night jessamine offers an unparalleled evening sensory experience due to its powerful, fragrant blossoms, making Cestrum nocturnum a must-have for tropical and subtropical gardeners. Its low maintenance profile and versatility as a hedge or screen add functional value during the day. Check your local hardiness zone compatibility before planting this magnificent night-bloomer.
Companion Planting
When siting Cestrum nocturnum, consider pairing it with plants that offer complementary daytime interest, as its main show occurs after sunset. Plants that prefer similar rich, moist, and well-draining soils, such as tropical hibiscus or various ornamental gingers (if light levels permit), work well in shrub borders. To maximize nighttime viewing, place it near seating areas where the cooling evening air will carry the heavy perfume of the night jessamine.
Propagation Tips
Successfully propagating Cestrum nocturnum is often achieved easily through semi-hardwood stem cuttings. Select healthy, non-flowering shoots approximately 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring they have several nodes. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a sterile, well-aerated medium, such as a mix of peat and perlite. Keep the cuttings humid and warm, avoiding direct hot sunlight until roots develop, which significantly increases the success rate for establishing new shrubs.
