Day King (Cestrum Diurnum)

The Day King, scientifically known as Cestrum diurnum, is an attractive and fragrant ornamental shrub native to Central and South America. It is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions for its sweetly scented flowers and glossy foliage. This small to medium-sized shrub typically reaches a height of about 60–80 cm, making it well suited for gardens, borders, and container planting.

The plant features oval-shaped, dark green, glossy leaves that can grow up to 10 cm long, giving it a lush and healthy appearance year-round. During spring and summer, the Day King produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are white to pale yellow in color. These blooms release a pleasant, jasmine-like fragrance during the daytime, attracting bees and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant forms small black berries, which are toxic and should be kept away from children and pets.

Day King is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that adapts well to various growing conditions. It performs best in warm climates and is valued for both its ornamental appeal and ease of care.

Caring for your Day King

Difficulty level: Easy
Light requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Watering schedule: Moderate; water regularly but avoid waterlogging
Soil type: Well-drained soil; adaptable to most soil types
Humidity: Moderate
Fertilization: Every 2–3 months during the growing season
Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth
Pet friendliness: Toxic (berries are harmful if ingested)

With its fragrant daytime blooms and glossy foliage, the Day King makes a lovely addition to gardens and landscaped spaces, offering beauty with minimal upkeep.