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Description
Cestrum Parqui, also known as Green Cestrum or Willow-leaved Jessamine, is an evergreen shrub native to South America. This plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with a dense, bushy habit. It produces small, tubular greenish-white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are followed by small, black berries that are attractive to birds. The plant has a sweet fragrance that intensifies at night, making it a popular choice for gardens and patios.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Solanaceae |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Cestrum |
Appearance
Cestrum Parqui has long, narrow, dark green leaves that are up to 8 inches long. The leaves are smooth and glossy, with wavy edges. The plant produces small, tubular greenish-white flowers that are about 1 inch long. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that intensifies at night. The plant produces small, black berries that are attractive to birds. The plant has a dense, bushy habit and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
Care Guide
Cestrum Parqui is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: Cestrum Parqui prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water your plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Cestrum Parqui prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically designed for shrubs.- Sunlight: Cestrum Parqui prefers full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well.- Hardiness Zones: Cestrum Parqui is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cestrum Parqui is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep your plant healthy and well-watered. If you do notice an infestation, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cestrum Parqui is native to South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cestrum Parqui toxic?
A: Yes, Cestrum Parqui is toxic to humans and animals if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cestrum Parqui?
A: Fertilize your Cestrum Parqui in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for application rates.
Q: Can I grow Cestrum Parqui in a container?
A: Yes, Cestrum Parqui can be grown in a container. Use a potting mix that is specifically designed for shrubs and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: Does Cestrum Parqui attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Cestrum Parqui is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
– Cestrum elegans (Red Cestrum)- Cestrum diurnum (Day-blooming Jessamine)- Cestrum nocturnum (Night-blooming Jessamine)- Cestrum fasciculatum (Clustertree)- Cestrum aurantiacum (Orange Cestrum)
References
– “Cestrum Parqui.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287327&isprofile=0&.- “Cestrum Parqui.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/120147/.- “Green Cestrum.” San Marcos Growers, www.sanmarcosgrowers.com/plant-list/cestrum-parqui/.- “Willow-leaved Jessamine.” Fine Gardening, The Taunton Press, www.finegardening.com/plant/willow-leaved-jessamine-cestrum-parqui.
