Orange cestrum
Cestrum aurantiacum
Orange cestrum
Legal Status: Unwanted Organism - MPI
Status in New Zealand: Established
Organism: Land plants
Description
Orange cestrum is a shrub that grows to 2 m high, characterised by its clusters of orange cylindrical flowers that appear from November to July. The stem becomes woody as the plant matures. It is uncommon to see berries on this plant but, when present, they are white.
Impact
This plant invades both native bush and exotic forest. It prevents native plant seedlings from establishing through formation of dense stands in forest understorey and shrubland. All Cestrum species are reported to be poisonous to livestock.
What to do
Contact your regional council to determine the status of this species and responsibility for control and/or advice on control.
* photo courtesy of Trevor James
Page last updated: 12 October 2012