The “Night Lily Plant” is a captivating common name primarily associated with Cestrum nocturnum, often referred to as Night-Blooming Jasmine or Lady of the Night. This plant stands out for its intensely fragrant blossoms, which unfurl their petals and release their sweet perfume exclusively after sunset. The allure of its nocturnal scent makes it a popular choice for gardens and outdoor spaces where its unique aroma can be fully appreciated during evening hours. While other night-blooming species may be called “Night Lily,” Cestrum nocturnum is most recognized by this name due to its distinctive aroma.
Identifying Night Lily Plants
Cestrum nocturnum is a woody evergreen shrub that can also grow into a small tree, typically reaching 6 to 15 feet with a sprawling or upright growth habit. Its branches are slender and arch gracefully, adorned with glossy, dark green, narrow, lance-shaped leaves measuring about 2 to 6 inches long.
The plant’s floral display consists of numerous small, tubular flowers, typically greenish-white or yellowish-green, about 1 inch long. These flowers are borne in clusters, either terminally or in the leaf axils. The flowers open in the evening, releasing a powerful, sweet, musky fragrance perceptible from a significant distance, sometimes up to 300-500 feet. This intense aroma attracts night-flying pollinators like moths. The flowers remain open and fragrant throughout the night, closing with the arrival of morning. Following the blooms, small, white, ovoid berries may form, though all parts of the plant, especially the berries, are toxic to humans and pets.
Cultivating Night Lily Plants
Successful cultivation of the Night Lily plant hinges on providing optimal environmental conditions. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, with full sun promoting the best flowering. If grown indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window for sufficient bright, indirect light and robust blooming.
This plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A loamy or sandy soil type is suitable, with a pH range of slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5). Consistent moisture is important, especially during its active growing season. While the soil should remain moist, avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Watering frequency might need adjustment to several times a week, or even daily in hot weather, ensuring the soil dries slightly between waterings.
Night Lily plants are tropical, flourishing in warm temperatures and high humidity. They are hardy in USDA Zones 8-11, but new growth can be sensitive to temperatures below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. In cooler climates, grow them in containers for indoor movement or frost protection during winter. For optimal growth and flowering, apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Established plants also benefit from annual feeding in early spring to support healthy blooms.
Ongoing Care and Common Issues
Maintaining the health and vigor of your Night Lily plant involves regular care. Pruning is beneficial for shaping the plant, controlling its size, and encouraging more abundant blooms. The best time for pruning is in spring before the growing season, or after flowering. Removing dead or damaged branches and trimming overgrown areas helps maintain a bushy, compact form. Significant pruning every few years can stimulate vigorous blooming and denser growth.
While generally robust, Cestrum nocturnum can occasionally encounter common pests. Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites may affect the plant. These pests can often be managed by spraying them off with a strong stream of water or by applying insecticidal soaps or neem oil for persistent infestations. The plant is not particularly prone to diseases affecting foliage or roots.
If the plant exhibits a lack of blooms, several factors could be at play, including insufficient light, inconsistent watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Yellowing leaves might indicate overwatering or a lack of essential nutrients. Providing adequate root space and considering the plant’s sensitivity to extreme temperatures also contributes to its overall health and blooming potential.
Propagating Night Lily Plants
Propagating Cestrum nocturnum is a straightforward process, with stem cuttings being the most common and effective method. The ideal time to take cuttings is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a leaf node. Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prepare it for rooting.
Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone powder can enhance success and promote faster root development, though it is not strictly necessary. Plant the prepared cutting in a small pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. To create a humid environment conducive to root formation, cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or use a propagator. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight, and keep the soil consistently moist without over-saturating it. Roots typically form within 4-6 weeks. Once new growth is evident and the plant is established, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.