Cestrum Aurantiacum F.K.Mayer - Description
Cestrum Aurantiacum F.K.Mayer, also known as Orange Cestrum or Orange Jessamine, is a tropical shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. This plant species is native to Central America, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama. It has been introduced to several other regions, including the Caribbean, South America, and Florida, USA.
General Appearance
The Orange Cestrum plant is a deciduous or evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4 meters tall and 3 meters wide. It has a dense, bushy growth habit and produces clusters of orange-yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from late winter to early summer. The leaves are simple, elliptical, and glossy, growing up to 20 cm long. The stem and branches are woody, and the bark is grey-brown.
Common Names
The Orange Cestrum plant is also known as Orange Jessamine, Orange-flowered Jessamine, Golden Cestrum, and Yellow Cestrum. In Spanish, it is referred to as 'Cestro Naranja' or 'Floripondio.'
Uses
The Orange Cestrum plant has several traditional medicinal uses in Central and South America. The bark and leaves are used to treat fever, headaches, arthritis, and respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis. It is also believed to have sedative and calming effects. However, it should be noted that the plant contains toxic alkaloids, and its consumption can cause adverse effects.
In horticulture, the Orange Cestrum plant is valued for its attractive flowers and easy maintenance. It can be grown as a hedge, specimen plant, or in pots. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade. It is relatively drought-tolerant and can be trained into a desired shape through pruning.
Overall, the Orange Cestrum plant is an interesting and versatile species that has both medicinal and horticultural uses.Growth Conditions for Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer
Light: Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer is a sun-loving plant and requires full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours a day. However, it can also grow in partial shade, but the flowering and growth may not be as abundant.
Temperature: This plant is native to the high altitude regions of South America and therefore, prefers a cool and moderate climate. The ideal temperature range for Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer is between 10-25°C. Extreme heat or cold can stress the plant and affect its growth and flowering.
Soil: Well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (6.0-7.0) is suitable for Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and adding compost or aged manure can improve its quality. The plant can also grow in sandy or loamy soil but may require more frequent irrigation.
Cultivation
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer can be grown in a range of soil types, but the plant prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The plant can be grown through seeds or cuttings. If grown through seeds, sow them in well-draining soil in warm temperatures. The seeds will germinate within two weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to pots or a garden bed.
If the plant is propagated through stem cuttings, choose healthy stems with softwood, and cut them at an angle. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, place them in a pot with well-draining soil, and keep them moist. The cuttings will start rooting within two to three weeks. Harden off the plants before transplanting them to a garden bed.
Watering Needs
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer requires moderate watering. The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and fall off. Water the plant deeply once a week, and reduce the watering frequency during the winter months.
Fertilization
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months, as it is dormant, and will not require additional nutrients.
Pruning
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer requires minimal pruning, and it should be done only to shape the plant or to remove diseased or damaged branches. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring, before the plant starts actively growing. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and prune the plant to maintain its desired shape. It is advisable to wear gloves when pruning, as the plant has poisonous sap that can irritate the skin.
Propagation of Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer, commonly known as Orange cestrum, is a species of flowering plant in the family Solanaceae, native to South America.
The plant can be propagated via several methods such as:
Seeds
Seeds can be collected from mature fruit pods. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil mix at a depth of around 1/8 inches. Keep the soil moist and in a warm and bright location, preferably around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Germination usually takes between 20 to 30 days. The young seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly outside once they have grown to around 2 inches tall.
Cuttings
Cuttings from semi-hardwood or hardwood stems can be taken during the growing season. Use cutting that is around 6 inches long with at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves, dip the base in a rooting hormone and plant the cutting in a soilless mixture. Place the cutting in a bright location with indirect sunlight and keep it consistently moist until it shows signs of new growth, indicating it has rooted.
Division
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer can be propagated by dividing mature clumps. Carefully remove the plant from the ground or container and separate it into several clumps. Replant each clump separately at the same depth as it was previously growing. Ensure the soil is moist and provide regular care until new growth emerges.
With proper care and attention, Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer can be easily propagated by any of these methods.
Disease Management for Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer
Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer, also known as Orange cestrum or Orange Jessamine, does not face many disease issues since it is a hardy plant. However, some fungal and bacterial diseases can affect the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and their management:
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spots are caused due to fungal infections. This appears as small dark brown spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves immediately and apply fungicide to control further spreading of the disease.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that results in leaf drop, defoliation, and twig death. Remove infected twigs from the plant, which will help to reduce the spread of the disease, and apply fungicide spray to healthy leaves and twigs.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Prune infected leaves and maintain proper air circulation to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Root Rot: Over-watering and poorly drained soil can lead to root rot in Cestrum. Water the plant moderately and avoid over-watering. Remove the plant from the soil and discard infected roots.
Pest Management for Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer
Like many other plants, Cestrum aurantiacum F.K.Mayer can attract certain pests. Here are some of the common pests and their management:
- Scale Insects: They appear as small brown bumps on the stem and leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray to control them.
- Spider Mites: They cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and webbing on leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them. Increase humidity by misting the plant occasionally if you find spider mites.
- Aphids: They cause wilting and yellowing of leaves by sucking nutrients. Prune out infested parts, and spray the plant with water to remove them. Use insecticidal soap if the infestation is severe.
- Mealybugs: They appear as white cotton-like masses on the plant. Use alcohol wipes and insecticidal soap to control mealybugs.
