The shrub known as night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum) is famous for producing one of the plant world’s most potent nighttime fragrances. Despite its common name, this species is not a true jasmine (Jasminum genus), but rather a member of the nightshade family. The plant’s small, tubular, greenish-white flowers remain inconspicuous until darkness falls. They then release a powerful, complex aroma that has made the plant a legendary addition to night gardens.
Describing the Intoxicating Aroma
The scent of Cestrum nocturnum is overwhelmingly sweet, often described as heady, heavy, or musky, giving it a nearly narcotic quality. It possesses a distinct white floral profile, frequently compared to the rich, creamy notes found in tuberose, gardenia, or honeysuckle nectar. The fragrance is characterized by an intense, almost sickly sweetness that can be a polarizing experience.
This powerful aroma has a remarkable ability to travel over long distances, sometimes enveloping an entire neighborhood. While the scent is captivating from afar, a close encounter with the fully opened flowers can feel cloying or suffocating due to its sheer concentration. The sweet and musky undertones combine to create a dense perfume that signals the arrival of evening in tropical and subtropical climates.
The Chemistry of Nocturnal Fragrance Release
The unique timing of the scent release is governed by the plant’s circadian rhythm, an internal clock. This rhythm triggers the synthesis and emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) only after sunset, a mechanism optimized to attract its preferred pollinators. The plant’s primary target is nocturnal insects, particularly large moths, which are most active under the cover of darkness.
The complex aroma profile is the result of a blend of specific benzenoid and phenylpropanoid compounds. Key volatile components include linalool (floral and slightly woody notes), and benzaldehyde and phenylacetaldehyde (strong, sweet, ‘almond’ or ‘honey’ aspects). The nocturnal production of these compounds is regulated by the increased expression of genes within the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway. This concentrated release of VOCs ensures the scent is detectable from great distances, maximizing the plant’s reproductive success.
Important Safety Considerations
Cestrum nocturnum belongs to the Solanaceae family, commonly known as the nightshade family. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and especially the small white berries, contain toxic alkaloids. Ingestion by humans or pets can lead to serious adverse effects.
Symptoms of internal poisoning typically involve digestive upset, elevated body temperature, rapid heart rate, and gastritis. Beyond ingestion, the sheer strength of the fragrance itself can pose a health risk to sensitive individuals. The heavy concentration of volatile compounds released at night has been known to cause respiratory irritation, throat and nose discomfort, intense headaches, and nausea for people in close proximity. Caution is advised when planting this species, particularly in poorly ventilated areas or near windows.