The name “Hana Plant” is often used to refer to Cestrum nocturnum, commonly known as Night-blooming Jessamine. This tropical evergreen shrub is sought after for its powerful, sweet fragrance, which is released after sunset, making it a popular ornamental for patios and bright indoor spaces. Although it is not a true jasmine, its strong scent and relative ease of care contribute to its broad appeal among home gardeners.
Identification and Native Habitat
Cestrum nocturnum is an evergreen woody shrub with a sprawling, multi-branched habit, capable of reaching heights of up to 13 feet. It features simple, glossy, dark-green leaves that are narrow-lanceolate, typically growing between 2 and 6 inches long with smooth margins. Its slender, arching branches are heavily foliated, creating a dense canopy.
The flowers are the plant’s most distinguishing feature, appearing in clusters called cymose inflorescences. Individual blooms are small, approximately one inch long, possessing a slender, tubular corolla with five acute lobes, colored creamy-white to pale green. These flowers open exclusively at night to release a potent, musky perfume, attracting nocturnal pollinators. This species is native to the warm, humid environments of the West Indies, Southern Mexico, and Central America, thriving in lowland thickets and woodland openings.
Essential Care Requirements
The Night-blooming Jessamine requires a location that provides at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to promote optimal blooming, though it can tolerate partial shade. In extremely hot climates, placing the plant where it receives afternoon shade can help protect the foliage from scorching.
This tropical species performs best in warm conditions, preferring temperatures above 65°F and showing sensitivity to cold, especially frost. Since it is native to the tropics, it also appreciates high humidity, which can be provided indoors by placing the potted plant on a pebble tray filled with water. A rich, well-draining soil mix is important to prevent root issues, ideally an evenly balanced potting mix amended with organic matter like compost.
Cestrum nocturnum is a moisture-loving plant that requires consistent hydration, particularly during the active growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but never saturated or waterlogged to avoid the development of root rot. During the cooler, dormant winter months, the frequency of watering can be significantly reduced. Feeding the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every four to six weeks throughout the spring and summer growing season encourages healthy foliage and prolific flower production.
Propagation Techniques
Propagation of the Night-blooming Jessamine is reliably achieved through stem cuttings during the active growth phase in spring or early summer. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch section just below a leaf node using sterilized shears.
Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prevent rot and expose the nodes where new roots will emerge. Applying a rooting hormone powder to the cut end can accelerate root development. The prepared cutting is then planted in a small pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Maintain high humidity by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or dome. Roots typically form within four to six weeks when the cutting is kept in a warm, bright area away from direct sun.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Improper environmental conditions, especially related to watering and drainage, are the most frequent cause of problems. Overwatering or poorly draining soil quickly leads to root rot, a fungal infection that causes the foliage to become discolored and flaky. Prevent this condition by using the correct soil composition and ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Environmental stress, such as insufficient light, can lead to yellowing leaves and a “leggy” appearance as the plant stretches for light, reducing flower production. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Minor infestations can be managed by spraying the affected areas with a strong stream of water or by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to the foliage. If the plant is grown outside, the small, white, berry-like fruits that follow the flowers should be removed because they are poisonous to humans and pets.