Cestrum fasciculatum Newellii - Mexican red cestrum

Cestrum fasciculatum 'Newellii', or Mexican Red Cestrum, is a rare exotic bush of great ornamental value. Its arching branches adorned with dark green, velvety-textured foliage lightly structure the space. From spring until early autumn, it becomes covered in bright red, slightly fragrant flowers, arranged in generous clusters that attract butterflies and pollinators. It can be left to grow freely or trained, depending on the desired effect. Suited to mild climates, it thrives in full sun, in well-drained soil kept moist in summer. Outside the mildest regions, it can be grown in a pot and overwintered like a citrus tree.

Cestrum fasciculatum 'Newellii' belongs to the Solanaceae family. The botanical species Cestrum fasciculatum is native to central Mexico, where it thrives in subtropical zones, often on forest edges or well-drained slopes. The 'Newellii' cultivar was selected for its ornamental qualities, particularly its spectacular flowering and balanced growth. This vigorous bush features arching shoots and reaches a height of 1.5 to 2 metres, with a similar spread. Its growth is relatively fast. Its foliage consists of ovate, pointed leaves, measuring up to 13 centimetres long, in a deep, dark green, slightly velvety to the touch. Depending on the climate, they may be evergreen or semi-evergreen in winter. The flowering period, which lasts from May to October, is one of this plant's major assets. It produces crimson-red tubular flowers, grouped in dense clusters at the branch tips. Each flower measures about 2 to 3 cm long. Though their fragrance is subtle, they attract many pollinators such as butterflies and bees. After flowering, the bush forms small reddish-purple berries around 1.5 cm in diameter, containing several small brown seeds, adding further ornamental appeal. All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested.

The Mexican Red Cestrum is moderately hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -6/-8°C briefly and in sheltered positions. This bush makes an excellent orangery plant. In mild climates, it can be used in informal hedges, shrub borders, or as a standalone specimen to create a focal point. In cooler climates, it also works well in containers on a terrace, where it can be easily overwintered. It pairs beautifully with Leonotis leonurus (Lion's Tail) with its fiery orange inflorescences and Phormium 'Yellow Wave' variegated in yellow and green. Play with differences in height and texture to create a harmonious plant display.