Cestrum parqui aka Chilean Jessamine

Taxonomy

Cestrum parqui, also known as palqui, green cestrum, or willow-leaved jessamine, is a species of flowering plant native to Chile. It is a deciduous or semi-evergreen medium-sized shrub, with lanceolate leaves measuring up to 12cm in length. The tubular flowers are yellow-green, fragrant at night, and approximately 2.5cm long. The plant produces ovoid brownish berries as fruit. While in cultivation in the United Kingdom, Cestrum parqui has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. However, in Australia, it is considered a noxious invasive weed and poses a significant threat to livestock, particularly cattle, who may accidentally consume it, leading to fatal consequences. This shrub, belonging to the Solanaceae family, is known for its vigorous growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation. It thrives in moist habitats but can also be found along roadsides and in neglected, disturbed, and abandoned sites.

Common names

Chilean Jessamine, Chilean Cestrum, Green Cestrum

How to care for Chilean Jessamine

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Chilean Jessamine, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Chilean Jessamine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Chilean Jessamine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Chilean Jessamine prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.


More info:
Wikipedia