A Guide About Cestrum Flower

This genus contains more than two hundred species, all native to tropical and subtropical America. They can be cultivated in the open only in regions with an almost frost-free climate. The plants will, however, tolerate a few degrees. if established in a sheltered position and given winter protection of some straw, dead leaves, sacking, etc., at their base and around the main stems. A position against a sunny wall is best for providing such protection; the natural form and habit of cestrums also makes them excellent wall plants, with their tall, loose, open habit so ideal for wall training. Plants subjected to slight frost generally lose their leaves, although they are normally evergreen. Even if all the above-ground part of the plant is killed back by a slight cold spell, new growth will generally be made from the base in spring. In really cold regions, cestrums do well in greenhouses, either planted permanently or cultivated in pots; north of Zones  in North America, this is the only way they can be cultivated. In Europe, they are hardy outdoor plants on the Riviera and in other districts with a Mediterranean- type climate. Cestrums have a very long flowering period, from early summer until autumn, after which the plants bear attractive red, black, or violet berries. Propagation can be effected from seed sown in a warm greenhouse in spring, or by means of soft cuttings taken in late summer and placed in a warm greenhouse. All cestrums require severe pruning after flowering has finished, or in early spring.

Cestrum aurantiacum Lindl.

 Native to Guatemala. An evergreen shrub of graceful open habit with loose, almost semi-pendent branches and a wide, spreading form. The prolific tubular-shaped  long orange-yellow flowers are massed in large terminal axillary pendulous racemes. Leaves oval, alternate,. long. Widely cultivated for its really beautiful summer flowering effect, and an excellent subject for large pots, etc.

Cestrum diurnum D.C.

Native to the West Indies. A fairly compact shrub with oblong or oval foliage up to. long. Widely planted in Florida for its white fin.-long tubular flowers that are strongly scented during the day. Inflorescences borne in terminal axillary clusters with long stems.

Cestrum elegans Schlecht. 

Native to Mexico. Practically identical to the preceding, but slightly taller with intense carmine-red flowers and larger leaves. This is the most frequently planted species, of which there are also several forms, including one with variegated foliage and pink flowers.

Cestrum newellii Nichols.

Of hybrid origin, probably the result of a cross between Cestrum aurantiacum and Cestrum elegans. Named after a Mr. Newell, who was the first to cultivate it in England, raising the plant from seed. In all general respects identical to its parents, although slightly smaller in habit and with magnificent scarlet flowers.

Cestrum nocturnum L.

 Native to the West Indies. One of the most interesting species for its strong, sweet perfume at night; colour cream-yellow. Less vigorous than the previously mentioned cestrums and of more modest pro-portions, but similar in general appearance.