Cestrum nocturnum is a member of the family Solanaceae. Cestrum nocturnum is commonly called Night Jasmine, Night Queen, Raat rani, Raat ki rani, Night Blooming Jasmine, Night Blooms, Night Jasmine, and Night Jasmine Vines.
This plant is widely cultivated throughout tropical regions of the world. It is one of the most common flowering vines found in gardens and landscaping.
Night queen is a hardy climber that can reach up to 10 feet tall. It thrives in warm weather and needs bright light. It prefers rich, fertile soils but will tolerate poor ones if it gets enough water.
Night queen is easy to grow and care for. You can start this plant from seed or buy a young plant at a nursery. If you want to grow this plant yourself, here are some tips to help you get started.
How to grow Night queen
1. Grow in Full Sun
Sunlight is essential for plants to thrive. Plants require sunlight to produce food and energy. They also need light to make photosynthesis happen, which converts carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and carbohydrates.
2. Water Regularly
Plants need regular watering to stay alive. When plants dry out, they stop producing food and begin to die. To avoid overwatering, look for signs of wilting leaves. Overwatering can cause root rot.
3. Feed Regularly
Feeding your plants regularly keeps them strong and healthy. Use fertilizer according to the instructions on the package.
4. Provide Good Air Circulation
Air circulation is necessary for plants to breathe properly. Without air flow, plants cannot absorb nutrients and moisture.
5. Add Mulch
Mulch acts like a blanket around roots and prevents weeds from growing. It also holds in moisture and protects the soil from drying out.
6. Repot Every 2 Years
Repotting is when you change the pot size of your plant. It allows the plant to grow bigger and stronger.
7. Prune Dead Leaves
Dead leaves can block airflow and prevent proper growth. Remove dead leaves before they fall to the ground.
Uses of Cestrum nocturnum
The Cestrum nocturnum has been used for centuries to treat various illnesses such as fever, colds, coughs, flu, sore throat, and respiratory infections. This plant also helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
It is an excellent source of vitamins A, B, C, D, E, K, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and fiber.
Health Benefits of Night Jasmine
- Night queen contains many antioxidants including beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, alpha-tocopherol, and phytosterols.
- These compounds fight free radicals and protect cells from damage caused by oxidation.
- Antioxidants have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
- Antioxidants may also be helpful in preventing cancer.
- Night queen is also known to boost immunity. In fact, it is often recommended for people who suffer from allergies, asthma, bronchitis, and sinus problems.
- Night jasmine is also believed to promote sleep. Studies show that people who inhale its scent tend to feel more relaxed and calm.
- Night queen contains volatile oils that act as natural insect repellents. The oil is released through the leaves and flowers of the plant.
- It is also effective against mosquitoes. Mosquitoes feed on blood and transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, West Nile virus, and encephalitis. Night jasmine is commonly used in mosquito coils.
- Night jasmine tea is another way to use night jasmine. It is made by steeping one teaspoon of dried flower heads in hot water overnight.
- You can drink this tea throughout the day or add it to your favorite beverage.
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Extra reading
Manoranjitha (Artabotrys odoratissimus)
Dodda Davana (Artemisia nilagirica)
5 climbers that are easy to grow
12 months flowering plants in India
Happy Gardening!
Dr. Vandana K.