I am a fast-growing, evergreen, sprawling shrub or small tree with long, arching branches. I often require support or frequent pruning to maintain a manageable, bushy shape.

My most precious feature is my small, creamy-white to yellowish-green tubular flowers, which appear in dense clusters. They are inconspicuous during the day but release their unforgettable, sweet perfume immediately after sunset, reaching maximum intensity around midnight.

My leaves are simple, glossy, elliptic, and light green.

I am native to the West Indies and Central America, but due to my fragrance, I am now cultivated throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including across India.

I am a thirsty, fast-growing plant that requires consistent moisture during the active growing and flowering season (Spring to Autumn).

Water me deeply when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

The soil should remain evenly moist; drying out completely will cause leaf drop and stunt flowering.

I thrive best in Full Sun to Partial Shade.

I require at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sun daily for robust growth and the heaviest flowering clusters.

While I tolerate semi-shade, the plant may grow leggy, and the flower production (and fragrance intensity) will be reduced.

I thrive in tropical and subtropical, warm conditions.

My ideal growing temperature range is 18°C to 30°C (65°F to 86°F).

I am highly sensitive to frost. I will experience severe dieback if temperatures drop near freezing. I must be protected or grown as an indoor plant in regions with cold winters.

Choose a location with rich, moist, fertile, well-draining soil. I adapt to many soil types but do best when organic matter is abundant.

Pruning: Pruning is essential! Prune me heavily in early spring to control my sprawling nature and encourage dense, bushy growth, as my flowers bloom on new wood.

Placement: Plant me near a bedroom window, patio, or seating area to enjoy my strong evening fragrance fully.

I am a moderately heavy feeder due to my rapid growth and continuous flowering habit.

Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (N-P-K) or a high-potassium fertilizer (to support flowering) every 2 to 3 weeks during the main growing and blooming period (April to October).

Supplement with organic compost or well-rotted manure once every 3 months.

Scientific Name: Cestrum nocturnum L.
Common Names: Night-blooming Jasmine, Raat Rani (Hindi, Gujarati), Queen of the Night
Plant Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade Family)
Plant Type: Tropical Evergreen Sprawling Shrub

SEVERE CAUTION: ALL parts of the Cestrum nocturnum plant, including the leaves, stems, and berries, are TOXIC if ingested. The plant contains potent neurotoxins (alkaloids) that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, convulsions, and respiratory issues in dogs, cats, livestock, and humans. Keep me strictly away from pets and children.

As a fast-growing shrub with high foliage density, I efficiently absorb carbon dioxide during the day.

Fragrance: My primary value is my intense, sweet, evening fragrance, prized in gardens globally.

Ornamental: Used as a specimen shrub, hedge, or container plant on patios.

Traditional Use: Used in perfumes and essential oils; traditionally thought to aid in sleep and relaxation due to the calming scent.

Pests: Vulnerable to Whiteflies, Aphids, and Spider Mites (especially in dry conditions).

Leggy Growth: Occurs due to insufficient light or lack of regular pruning.

Leaf Spot: Fungal disease in overly humid or poorly ventilated areas.

Remedy: Treat pests with insecticidal soap or Neem Oil. Prune aggressively in spring to maintain shape and bloom density.

I am a resilient and long-lived shrub. With careful management of my growth habit and protection from frost, I can be a source of enchanting evening fragrance for many years.