About

This robust evergreen shrub can reach heights of up to 3 meters. It features elongated, dull green leaves and produces clusters of tubular flowers that are approximately 2 centimeters in length, displaying a vivid crimson hue. After flowering, the plant bears purple berries.

About the genus

Cestrum consists of shrubs or climbing plants that can scramble as they grow. The leaves are simple and remain green year-round. Flowers, which are either tubular or shaped like salvers, appear in clusters at the ends of branches and in the leaf axils, eventually giving way to red or black berries.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing, East-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H3

Plant details

Plant type

Conservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

2.5-4 metres

Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Time to full height

5-10 years

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants

Toxicity

Harmful of eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Under glass grow in containers using peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light with good ventilation and shade from hot sun. Water freely in summer and keep just moist in winter. Can be grown outdoors in a sheltered sunny site and well-drained soil

Pruning

Pruning group 9

Propagation

Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in spring or by softwood cuttings in summer

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free