Cestrum parqui NIGHT BLOOMING JASMINE (5 seeds)

Chilean cestrum, Night-blooming Jasmine is a small, fast-growing shrub native to Argentina, South America. It is a member of the Solanaceae family.

Its yellowish-white flowers release a very pleasant scent, reminiscent of star jasmine, as soon as night falls. There is no need to get close to the flower to enjoy its fragrance; the perfume spreads up to thirty meters away all around the shrub.

Night-blooming Jasmine seeds are oval, black, and very hardy. They measure 6 millimeters in length, with each fruit typically containing one or two seeds.

- Properties:

Ornamental: Characterized by its fragrant white flowers that open only at night, its decorative qualities and sweet perfume make it a highlight for any garden.

Medicinal: It is also known for its medicinal virtues in treating insomnia and sleep disorders.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best time to sow Night-blooming Jasmine is at the end of May, when temperatures are consistently warm, exceeding 25°C.
• Soak the seeds for a few hours in lukewarm water.
• Bury them 4 to 5 millimeters deep in fine, pre-moistened peat.
• Press the soil down lightly and water delicately using a spray bottle.
• Place the pots in a greenhouse with a temperature of at least 30°C.
• Germination typically begins 3 to 5 weeks after sowing.

- Substrate:

Use a light and highly nutrient-rich substrate when starting the cultivation.

- Light & Temperature:

This plant requires significant heat and bright light to grow quickly. It thrives at a temperature of around 30°C in full sun.

- Watering:

Regular watering is needed (note: the original text mentions "semestriel" but in a horticultural context, it requires frequent watering during the growing season).

- Hardiness:

It is not hardy at all. Be sure to bring it indoors before the first night frosts.

- Pests and Fungal Diseases:

Fungal: Cryptogamic diseases such as powdery mildew and rust are rare but can occasionally affect the foliage.

Insects: Pests such as aphids, thrips, and mites may also attack the plant.