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purple cestrum
Scientific Name: Cestrum elegans
Family: Solanaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Cestrum: Unveiling the Beauty and Intrigue
The genus Cestrum encompasses a variety of captivating plants, with several species and hybrids attracting attention for their vibrant blooms and fragrant presence. This overview explores key aspects of specific Cestrum varieties, including Cestrum elegans, Cestrum purpureum, and the hybrid Cestrum x cultum.
Considerations for Pets
- The common name "elegant poison-berry" for Cestrum elegans might raise concerns.
Considerations for Children
- The common name "elegant poison-berry" for Cestrum elegans might raise concerns.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Names: Cestrum elegans (Brongn. ex Neumann) Schltdl., Cestrum purpureum, Cestrum x cultum
- Common Names: Purple Cestrum, Red Cestrum, Pink Cestrum, Crimson Cestrum, Day Blooming Jasmine, Elegant poison-berry
- Family: Solanaceae
- Synonyms: Cestrum purpurea
- Cestrum x cultum is a hybrid between Cestrum elegans and Cestrum parqui.
Distribution and Habitat
- Cestrum elegans is native to Mexico.
- It has been observed in Hawaii.
- It can invade disturbed rainforest margins.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Cestrum are described as erect or arching shrubs.
- Cestrum elegans is an evergreen plant with simple, alternate, elliptic to lance-shaped leaves.
- Flowers are tubular, held in terminal clusters, and vary in color from purple-red to deep pink. Some varieties display mauve/purple tubular fragrant flowers.
- One variety described as a "Purple Weeping Cestrum" grows to 10 feet.
Ecological Role
- Red cestrum (Cestrum elegans) is noted to invade disturbed rainforest margins, potentially impacting native ecosystems.
Quirky Facts
- There is a variety of Cestrum that produces orange Physalis-like fruits.
Cultivation
- Cestrum requires bright light, including direct sunlight.
- The plant is borderline frost hardy and may require protection in colder climates, such as overwintering in a greenhouse or conservatory.
- It is suitable for growing in a large pot.
- The 'Cretan Purple' variety is available in 3-liter containers.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden is a community where gardeners share tips and ideas.
- Plants of Hawaii offers images and information on Cestrum x cultum.
- Taxonomic information can be found using the TSN (Taxonomic Serial Number) 821243 for Cestrum elegans.