The Manacá da Serra, scientifically known as Brunfelsia uniflora, is a captivating flowering shrub known for its dynamic floral display. Also called Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow, it is native to Brazil’s tropical forests. Its unique characteristics make it a popular choice for distinctive landscapes.
The Distinctive Bloom Cycle
Manacá da Serra flowers change color over a few days. Each blossom begins as vibrant deep purple or violet. Over about three days, the color transitions to soft lavender, then to pure white before withering.
This unique progression means a single plant displays all three hues—deep purple, lavender, and white—simultaneously, creating a continuous, multi-colored spectacle that gives it the common name, Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow. Flowering occurs profusely in spring and early summer, with reblooming possible throughout the year, especially after pruning.
Cultivating Manacá da Serra
Growing Manacá da Serra successfully requires specific conditions mimicking its native tropical habitat. Providing proper light, soil, water, temperature, humidity, fertilization, and pruning ensures a healthy, floriferous plant.
Light
Manacá da Serra thrives in bright, indirect light or partial shade, needing four to six hours of indirect sunlight daily. While it tolerates full sun in cooler climates, protect it from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Insufficient light leads to reduced blooming and spindly growth.
Soil
Well-draining, loamy soil prevents root rot in Manacá da Serra, retaining moisture without waterlogging. An ideal soil mix is rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Incorporate peat, perlite, and organic compost to improve structure and drainage.
Watering
Consistent moisture is required for Manacá da Serra; avoid overwatering. Keep soil consistently moist, allowing the top inch to dry slightly between waterings. Water in the morning to allow absorption and prevent fungal issues. Potted plants require more frequent watering, especially during warm periods.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, Manacá da Serra prefers warm, humid conditions. Ideal daytime temperatures are 25°C (77°F), with a stable range of 60-75°F. It tolerates brief dry spells, but higher humidity is preferred. In drier environments, misting leaves or using a humidity tray maintains adequate moisture.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering. During the growing season (spring-summer), apply a balanced NPK fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks. A phosphorus-rich fertilizer encourages blooming; excessive nitrogen promotes foliage. Reduce or stop fertilization during winter.
Pruning
Pruning maintains the plant’s shape, size, and encourages blooms. Prune Manacá da Serra after its main flowering period, in late spring or early summer. Removing spent flowers encourages new growth and further blooming. A light trim promotes a bushier appearance; remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests and Diseases
Manacá da Serra is susceptible to common garden pests like aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Sticky residue, curled leaves, or visible insects indicate aphid infestation; fine webbing and yellowing leaves signal spider mites. Manage these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal problems, such as root rot, occur if soil is waterlogged; ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Landscaping Uses
The Manacá da Serra is a versatile shrub, enhancing garden designs with its vibrant, color-changing flowers and attractive foliage. Its moderate size (3-8 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide) suits diverse applications, serving as a striking specimen plant with unique floral display.
Effective in mixed borders, it provides continuous visual interest with multi-colored blooms. It creates informal hedges or screens, offering beauty and privacy. Adapting to container cultivation, it is ideal for patios, balconies, or as an accent plant. Its evergreen foliage ensures year-round appeal.
Important Considerations
All parts of Manacá da Serra (Brunfelsia uniflora) contain toxic compounds and require cautious handling. These compounds, including manacine and brunfelsamidine, cause adverse reactions if ingested. Symptoms include gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures.
Dogs are particularly attracted to the berries and flowers of the plant; poisoning has also been reported in cats, birds, and livestock. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. When pruning or handling, wear gloves and wash hands afterward to prevent accidental exposure.