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Description
Cestrum Fasciculatum, commonly known as the clustered cestrum, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and can grow up to 8 feet tall. This plant is characterized by its clusters of tubular, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from spring to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Cestrum |
| Species: | C. fasciculatum |
Appearance
Cestrum Fasciculatum has deep green leaves that are elongated and oval-shaped, measuring up to 5 inches long. The flowers are tubular and greenish-yellow, with a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant produces small, round, black berries that are toxic to humans and wildlife.
Care Guide
Cestrum Fasciculatum is relatively low maintenance and easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep your plant healthy:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Cestrum Fasciculatum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cestrum Fasciculatum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it is still susceptible to a few common problems:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Spider Mites: These tiny, red or brown insects can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use neem oil to control them.
Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not sitting in standing water.
Habitat
Cestrum Fasciculatum is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in open woodlands, canyons, and hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cestrum Fasciculatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant’s berries are toxic to both humans and pets.Q: Can Cestrum Fasciculatum be grown indoors?
A: It can, but it prefers full sun and may not thrive indoors.Q: How often should I fertilize Cestrum Fasciculatum?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season.Q: How tall does Cestrum Fasciculatum grow?
A: It can grow up to 8 feet tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cestrum Fasciculatum:
- Cestrum elegans
- Cestrum aurantiacum
- Cestrum nocturnum
- Cestrum parqui
References
- “Cestrum fasciculatum.” Floridata. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/643.
- “Cestrum fasciculatum.” University of Arizona Campus Arboretum. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://arboretum.arizona.edu/plants/cestrum-fasciculatum.
- “Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Clusters Cestrum.” ASPCA. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/clustered-cestrum.
