Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, commonly known as Night-blooming Jasmine or Tree of Sorrow, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of South Asia and Southeast Asia, often found in thickets, forests, and along riverbanks. It typically grows to a height of 10 meters (33 feet) with a spread of 2.5 to 5 meters (8-16 feet). The plant has a multi-branched, spreading habit with flaky grey bark. Its leaves are opposite, simple, with an entire margin, and are 6 to 12 cm in length. The fragrant flowers are white with an orange-red center and bloom at night from late spring to early fall, producing a strong, sweet perfume that is especially noticeable in the evening. The flowers are showy due to their contrast against the dark green foliage.

Night-blooming Jasmine is valued for its highly fragrant flowers and is often used in ornamental plantings, as a specimen plant, or for night gardens where its evening fragrance can be appreciated. It is also planted for cultural and religious purposes in India, where the flowers are used in garlands and worship. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soils, and moderate watering, with reduced watering in the winter. It can be susceptible to pests like aphids and caterpillars, and diseases such as leaf spot. Pruning is necessary to maintain a desired shape and to remove any dead or diseased wood. The plant is also known for its medicinal uses in Ayurvedic medicine, treating conditions such as sciatica, arthritis, and fevers. Additionally, an orange dye extracted from the corolla is traditionally used to color silk.CC BY-SA 4.0