Overview of Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér.
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér., also known as green cestrum or Chilean cestrum, is a perennial shrub native to South America, particularly in the central and southern regions of Chile. The plant is a member of the nightshade family, Solanaceae.
Common names
The plant is known by different names in various regions, including:
- Green cestrum
- Chilean cestrum
- Willow-leaved jessamine
- Jazmin del pais
Appearance
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. can grow up to 3 to 4 meters tall. The plant has a woody stem and branches that are green or grayish-green in color. The leaves are long, narrow, and lance-shaped with slightly serrated edges. The leaves are dark green on the top and pale green underneath, with a smooth and glossy surface.
The plant produces small, tubular, and greenish-white flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers have a faint, sweet smell that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, berry-like capsule that turns from green to black as it matures.
Uses
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. has several medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The plant is believed to have antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves and bark of the plant are used to treat fever, headaches, and toothaches.
The plant is also used for landscaping purposes due to its attractive appearance and sweet-smelling flowers. However, it should be noted that the plant is toxic to both humans and animals if ingested.
Overall, Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. is a fascinating plant with both medicinal and ornamental value, but it should be handled with care due to its toxicity.
Growth Conditions for Cestrum Parqui
Light: Cestrum parqui prefers bright light but can tolerate partial shade. This plant can grow well in both direct and indirect sunlight.
Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. Cestrum parqui grows best in temperatures ranging from 18 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius.
Soil: Cestrum parqui prefers well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. For optimal growth, the pH of the soil should range from 5.5 to 7.0. This plant can also tolerate somewhat sandy or clayey soil as long as drainage is good.
Water: Cestrum parqui requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizer: This plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with a composition of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 should be applied every 14 days. Slow-release fertilizers can also be used.
Pruning: Pruning can be done at any time to maintain the plant's shape and size. However, it is best to do any significant pruning in the spring or summer. This will help to encourage new growth.
Cultivation methods
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, it performs best in well-draining soil with pH levels between 5.5 and 7.5. It is essential to plant the seedlings or cuttings in areas with full to partial sunlight.
It is advisable to dig a hole that is twice as big as the root ball of the seedling and to add organic matter or compost to improve the nutrient content of the soil. The plant should be spaced at least 3 feet apart to prevent overcrowding and maximize air circulation.
Watering needs
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. It is advisable to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the humidity and temperature levels. During the hotter months, the plant may need more frequent watering.
It is crucial to avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant, as this can cause fungal infections. Water the plant at the base, and allow the soil to dry out slightly before the next watering.
Fertilization
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. benefits from regular fertilization to promote growth and flowering. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
The plant should be fertilized once every month during the growing season, which typically runs from spring to fall. It is essential to read the label of the fertilizer carefully and avoid overfertilization, which can cause burnt roots and foliage.
Pruning
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. requires little pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. It is advisable to prune lightly in the early spring or late winter before the plant starts to grow actively.
The plant can be pruned to remove any dead, damaged or diseased branches. It is also advisable to remove any suckers or water sprouts that may emerge from the base or sides of the plant.
When pruning, it is crucial to use sterile pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases and infections, and to make clean cuts through the branches.
Propagation of Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér.
Cestrum parqui auct. non L'Hér. is commonly known as the green cestrum and is an evergreen shrub that can be propagated easily through different methods:
1. Seed propagation
The green cestrum can be propagated through seed. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruit and cleaned. The cleaned seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix, with a layer of coarse sand over it. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil mix, and kept moist. Germination can occur within 2-3 weeks.
2. Stem cutting propagation
The green cestrum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings of approximately 10 cm length can be taken from the tip of a matured stem. The lower leaves on the cutting should be removed and dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and kept moist. Within 4-6 weeks, new roots will grow, and the cutting can be transplanted to its final growing location.
3. Layering propagation
The green cestrum can be propagated through layering. A branch of the plant is bent down to the ground, the lower part of the branch is scraped off to create a wound, and the scraped area is covered in moist soil. The branch can be secured to the ground with a stake or by adding some weight to it. The branch will develop roots within a few weeks at the scraped area. The rooted branch can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to its final growing location.
Disease Management
Cestrum parqui is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and appearance.
Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease causes the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant to rot. To prevent Botrytis blight, provide proper air circulation and space the plant properly. Remove any infected plant parts and destroy them. Fungicides can also be sprayed on the plant as a preventive measure.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Remove the infected parts of the plant and destroy them. Fungicides can also be sprayed on the plant to prevent further spread.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering, and poor drainage, causing roots to rot. To prevent root rot, make sure to provide good drainage for the plant. Avoid overwatering and properly water the plant.
Pest Management
Cestrum parqui is also prone to some pests that can damage the plant and reduce its growth.
Spider Mites: These tiny mites can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. To get rid of spider mites, wash the plant with water, use insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
Whiteflies: These insects damage plants by sucking sap and causing yellowing of leaves. Hang yellow sticky traps or use insecticidal soap to control whiteflies. You can also plant companion plants such as marigold or nasturtiums to repel these insects.
Mealybugs: These insects look like small cotton balls and can cause stunted growth of plants. To get rid of mealybugs, use alcohol-soaked cotton swabs and wipe the plant’s affected parts. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
