Also known as Jin Ya Dai, Mei Hua, and Jiu Mei Hua, the Cestrum nocturnum is a common shrub that grows in sandy lands, river beaches, hillsides, and roadsides. Every spring and summer, it bursts into a dazzling array of colorful flowers, leaving people in awe and winning the favor of many plant enthusiasts. So, what kind of flower is Cestrum nocturnum? This article will provide a detailed introduction for you.
Scientific Name and Alias
The scientific name of Cestrum nocturnum is Cestrum nocturnum L., belonging to the Solanaceae family. In different regions, it is known by slightly different names. For example, it is called Jin Ya Dai in Changzhou, Jiangsu; Mei Hua in Guangdong; and Jiu Mei Hua in Hainan. These aliases are related to the shape, color, and other characteristics of the flower.
Flowering Period
The flowering period of Cestrum nocturnum is generally from May to October, which can be considered the most beautiful season of the year. At this time, the branches of the Cestrum nocturnum are covered with fragrant and colorful small flowers, giving people a sense of spring.
Color and Morphology
The flowers of Cestrum nocturnum are lantern-shaped, with a diameter of only 1-2 cm, composed of 5 small petals. The colors also vary, including white, yellow, pink, light purple, and more. Each flower has a delicate and beautiful color.
Distribution
Cestrum nocturnum is native to Central and South America and the Caribbean region. It is now widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including southern China. In China, it can be found in Guangdong, Hainan, Fujian, Yunnan, Guangxi, and other places.
Fragrance
Cestrum nocturnum emits a fresh fragrance, which is especially strong at night. It is sometimes called "Night-Blooming Jasmine" due to its extremely rich aroma.
Symbolism
The language of flowers for Cestrum nocturnum is "a promise of love," symbolizing pure and sincere love. It can also eliminate tension and depression, making people feel calm and warm.
Application Value
In addition to its beautiful appearance and intoxicating fragrance, Cestrum nocturnum also has certain medicinal value. Its roots and leaves have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects and can be used to treat diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis.
Propagation of Cestrum nocturnum
There are several ways to propagate Cestrum nocturnum, such as by seeds, cuttings, and division. Among them, cuttings are the most common method. You only need to cut a healthy branch from the middle and insert it into moist sandy soil. Under suitable conditions, it will soon take root and sprout.
Varieties of Cestrum nocturnum
There are more than 30 known varieties of Cestrum nocturnum, but fewer common varieties are found in China. Among them, more common varieties include the common Cestrum nocturnum, golden Cestrum nocturnum, and moonlight Cestrum nocturnum.
Care Tips
Cestrum nocturnum is relatively drought-tolerant and cold-tolerant, but it cannot tolerate waterlogging. When caring for Cestrum nocturnum, pay attention to watering and fertilizing in a timely manner, and maintain a well-ventilated environment. At the same time, regular pruning and shaping are necessary to maintain its beauty.
Landscape Application
Due to its long flowering period, rich colors, and strong fragrance, Cestrum nocturnum is widely used in landscaping and garden decoration, bringing people a beautiful enjoyment.
Cultural Influence
Cestrum nocturnum is not just a beautiful flower, but also a presence rich in cultural meaning. In Chinese culture, Cestrum nocturnum is endowed with the meanings of "a spring breeze for ten miles is not as good as you" and "this beauty will eventually wither."
Landscape Design
In landscape design, Cestrum nocturnum can be combined with other flowers and green plants to create a unique landscape effect. At the same time, it can also be adjusted and matched according to different seasons and environmental characteristics.
Spread of Cestrum nocturnum
In modern society, new media such as the internet has become a new way to spread Cestrum nocturnum. Through online platforms, people can share photos and cultural connotations of Cestrum nocturnum, enhancing people's understanding and love for it.
Cestrum nocturnum, a beautiful and culturally significant flower, is common in our lives. Mastering the knowledge about its scientific name, aliases, color, morphology, distribution, fragrance, symbolism, application value, propagation, varieties, care tips, landscape application, cultural influence, landscape design, and spread is beneficial for better appreciating and inheriting this precious cultural heritage.