Rajnigandha Plant

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Polianthes tuberosa

• Common Names: Rajnigandha, Tuberose, Nishigandha, Sugandharaja

• Family: Asparagaceae

• Type: Perennial, bulbous flowering plant

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native To: Mexico

• Widely cultivated in India, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean region for ornamental and commercial flower production.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height: 2–4 feet tall when mature.

• Leaves: Long, narrow, grass-like green leaves growing in a rosette from the base.

• Flowers: Tall spikes with clusters of pure white, waxy, tubular flowers that emit a strong, sweet fragrance.

• Blooming Period: Typically blooms in summer to early autumn in warm climates.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers full sunlight for best flowering.

• Soil: Well-drained, sandy-loam soil enriched with organic matter.

• Watering: Keep soil moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging.

• Temperature: Thrives in warm climates (20–30°C) and is sensitive to frost.

• Humidity: Performs well in moderate humidity conditions.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Planting: Grown from bulbs, planted in spring for summer blooms.

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growth.

• Pruning: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooming.

• Pests/Diseases: Can be affected by aphids, thrips, and fungal diseases if overwatered.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Grown in gardens, pots, and as cut flowers for decoration.

• Fragrance Industry: Flowers are used in making perfumes, essential oils, and attar.

• Cultural Use: Popular in wedding garlands, religious offerings, and festive decorations in India.

• Therapeutic: Its aroma is believed to have mood-lifting and stress-reducing properties.

7. Lifespan

• Perennial when grown in warm climates; bulbs can be stored and replanted annually in colder regions.