Parijat Flower Cultivation: A Complete Guide to Growing the Sacred Night-Blooming Tree at Home

Parijat Flower

Parijat flower, also known as Night-Flowering Jasmine, Harsingar, or Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, is one of the most sacred and aromatic flowering plants in India. Famous for its delicate white petals with a bright orange center, Parijat blooms at night and sheds its flowers by morning, creating a divine carpet beneath the tree.

Apart from its religious importance, Parijat is also valued for its medicinal properties and pleasant fragrance.

Cultivating Parijat is relatively easy if its basic requirements are met. Whether you want to grow it in your garden or a large pot, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Parijat flower cultivation.

Understanding the Parijat Plant

Parijat is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that usually grows 8–10 feet tall. It belongs to the Oleaceae family and thrives well in tropical and subtropical climates. The plant flowers mainly during late summer to early winter, with peak blooming during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

Climate and Temperature Requirements

Parijat grows best in a warm and humid climate. It prefers temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. Although it can tolerate mild cold, extreme frost may damage the plant. In regions with harsh winters, Parijat should be grown in pots so it can be moved to a protected area.

The plant requires good air circulation but should be protected from strong winds, especially during flowering.

Soil Preparation for Parijat Cultivation

Soil quality plays a major role in healthy growth and flowering.

• Use well-drained loamy soil
• Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
• Avoid waterlogged or clay-heavy soil

For best results, prepare the soil mix using:

• Garden soil
• Organic compost or well-rotted cow dung
• Sand for drainage

This combination ensures proper nutrition and prevents root rot.

Also Read: Litchi Cultivation: Complete Guide for Successful Farming

Propagation Methods

Parijat can be propagated through seeds and cuttings, but stem cuttings are more commonly used due to faster growth.

Propagation by Cuttings

• Take 6–8 inch semi-hardwood cuttings
• Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone
• Plant in moist soil or coco peat
• Roots usually develop within 4–6 weeks

Propagation by Seeds

• Collect fresh seeds from mature fruits
• Sow in nursery beds or seed trays
• Germination may take 3–4 weeks

Planting Process

• Choose a sunny to semi-shaded location
• Dig a pit of 1.5 x 1.5 feet
• Fill with prepared soil mixture
• Place the sapling gently and cover the roots
• Water thoroughly after planting

For pot cultivation, select a container of at least 18–24 inches depth with drainage holes.

Watering Requirements

Parijat requires moderate watering.

• Water regularly during the growing season
• Reduce watering in winter
• Avoid overwatering, as it may cause root rot

Always check the topsoil; water only when it feels dry to touch.

Also Read:Jasmine Plant Cultivation: A Complete Guide to Growing Fragrant Jasmine at Home

Sunlight Needs

Parijat grows best with 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, insufficient sunlight may reduce flowering. Morning sunlight is ideal, especially in hot regions.

Fertilization and Manure

To promote healthy growth and abundant flowering:

• Apply organic compost or vermicompost every 2–3 months
• Use cow dung manure during the flowering season
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it promotes leaves over flowers

Liquid organic fertilizers can be used once a month during active growth.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is essential to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

• Prune after the flowering season
• Remove dry, diseased, or weak branches
• Light pruning helps improve air circulation and flowering

Avoid heavy pruning during the flowering season.

Pest and Disease Management

Parijat is generally pest-resistant but may occasionally suffer from:

• Aphids
• Mealybugs
• Leaf spot diseases

Use neem oil spray or mild soap solution to control pests. Ensure proper drainage to prevent fungal infections.

Harvesting Flowers

Flowers naturally fall off early in the morning. Collect fresh fallen flowers for puja, garlands, or medicinal use. Avoid plucking flowers directly from the plant, as it may reduce blooming.

Benefits of Growing Parijat

• Highly fragrant and ornamental
• Sacred plant used in religious rituals
• Medicinal uses in Ayurveda
• Low maintenance and long-lasting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can Parijat be grown in pots?
Yes, Parijat can be grown in large pots with proper drainage and regular care.

Q2. How long does Parijat take to flower?
A cutting-grown plant may flower within 1–2 years, while seed-grown plants take longer.

Q3. Why is my Parijat not flowering?
Common reasons include insufficient sunlight, excess nitrogen fertilizer, or improper pruning.

Q4. How often should Parijat be watered?
Water when the topsoil is dry. Overwatering should be avoided.

Q5. Is Parijat a medicinal plant?
Yes, its leaves, flowers, and seeds are widely used in traditional medicine.

Also Read: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis