Parijat Plant

The Parijat plant (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis), commonly known as Harsingar or Night-Flowering Jasmine, is a sacred and heavily fragrant shrub famous for its white, star-shaped blossoms with vibrant orange-red stems.

KEY PLANT OVERVIEW

BOTANICAL NAME: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis

FAMILY: OLEACEAE

COMMON NAMES: Harsingar, Coral Jasmine, Shiuli (State flower of West Bengal),Shefali.

FLOWER CHARACTERISTICS: Blooms exclusively at night, emitting a powerful, sweet fragrance, and sheds its petals by morning to form a natural carpet of white and orange under the tree.

BLOOMING SEASON: Typically from August to December (autumn into early winter).

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

SUNLIGHT: Requires about 4 to 6 hours of bright, direct sunlight or partial shade daily for optimal flowering.

WATERING: Moderate watering is essential. Allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings; avoid water-logging to prevent root rot.

SOIL: Prefers loose, nutrient-rich, and well-draining sandy or loamy soil mixed with organic compost.

FERTILIZER: Feed with organic manure or vermicompost once a month during the active growing and flowering season.

USES AND SIGNIFICANCE

CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS: Highly revered in Hindu mythology (originating from Samudra Manthan and brought down by Lord Krishna), the flowers are frequently used in temple offerings and prayers.

MEDICINAL (Ayurveda): Leaves and bark are widely used in traditional remedies to help manage joint pain, arthritis, and fevers due to their strong anti-inflammatory properties.

VASTU: Placed ideally in the North or East corners of a home garden to invite positive energy and tranquility.