Brugmansia, commonly known as Angel’s Trumpet, is cherished for its dramatic floral displays. These woody shrubs or small trees produce large, pendulous, trumpet-shaped flowers, 6 to 20 inches long. Available in shades of white, yellow, orange, pink, and red, many varieties release a strong, sweet fragrance, especially noticeable in the evening. Their striking appearance and alluring scent make Angel’s Trumpet a popular choice for gardeners.
Growing Conditions
Angel’s Trumpet thrives in locations receiving ample sunlight, ideally six to eight hours of direct sun daily, which promotes abundant blooming. In extremely hot or dry climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the foliage and flowers from intense heat. The plant prefers rich, fertile, and well-draining soil, benefiting from organic matter to support its vigorous growth. A slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 5.5 and 7.0, is suitable for healthy development.
Consistent moisture is important for Brugmansia, particularly during warm, active growing periods. Container-grown plants may need daily watering, or even twice a day in peak summer heat, to prevent the soil from drying out. While they require significant water, excellent drainage is equally important to avoid waterlogged conditions that can harm the roots. Adequate humidity also contributes to the plant’s overall well-being and lush appearance.
As prolific growers and bloomers, Brugmansia plants are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. During active growth and flowering, apply a water-soluble, bloom-boosting fertilizer with high potassium content (e.g., 15-30-15 or 10-50-10) every one to three weeks. For young plants, a balanced fertilizer like 20-20-20 can be used during initial growth. These plants are sensitive to frost, requiring protection when outdoor temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C).
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning Brugmansia encourages bushier growth, promotes more flowers, and maintains the plant’s desired size and shape. Flowers form on new growth above the plant’s initial “Y” shaped branching point. The optimal time for pruning is after a flush of blooms or in the fall before dormancy. Pruning can also be performed in spring when bringing overwintered plants back into active growth.
When pruning, remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be cut away to maintain plant health. Selective pruning helps shape the plant and encourages more branching, leading to a denser appearance and increased flower production. For overwintering, plants can be trimmed back by up to a third of their size.
In regions with cold winters, Brugmansia must be protected from freezing temperatures. Container-grown plants can be moved indoors when temperatures consistently fall below 50°F (10°C). They can be kept as active houseplants in a bright, warm location with weekly watering, or allowed to go dormant in a cool, dark, frost-free space (e.g., basement or garage) with minimal watering. If dormant, the plant may lose its leaves, but new growth will emerge in spring.
Propagation
Propagating Brugmansia through stem cuttings is the most effective and common method for home gardeners. Select healthy, semi-ripe stems 6 to 10 inches long. Remove all leaves from the bottom section, exposing leaf nodes, and optionally dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in a well-draining potting mix. Place the potted cutting in a semi-shaded location, maintaining consistent moisture; roots form within a few weeks.
While less common for hobbyists, Brugmansia can be propagated from seeds. Seed germination can be slow and unpredictable, taking several weeks to months. Plants grown from seed may exhibit genetic variation, meaning they might not be identical to the parent plant. To sow, place seeds 0.25 to 0.5 inches deep in a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix, ensuring warmth and consistent moisture for optimal germination. Light is beneficial for Brugmansia seed germination, so a very light covering is preferred.
Important Safety Information
All parts of the Brugmansia plant are highly toxic if ingested, containing potent tropane alkaloids. These compounds can cause severe symptoms if consumed. Therefore, exercise caution when handling any part of the plant.
Wearing gloves is advisable when pruning or handling Brugmansia, as the sap can irritate the skin. After any contact, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water. To prevent accidental ingestion, keep Brugmansia plants out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact poison control.
Common Problems
Brugmansia plants can encounter several common issues, including various pests. Spider mites, whiteflies, aphids, and mealybugs are frequent visitors that can weaken the plant by feeding on its sap. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage these infestations. Physical removal of larger pests like caterpillars is an option.
Fungal diseases such as root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil. Powdery mildew may appear in conditions with high humidity and poor air circulation. Wilting caused by fusarium or verticillium fungi can affect the plant, blocking water transport. Viral diseases, like mosaic virus, can cause stunted growth or discolored foliage; infected plants need to be removed to prevent spread.
Environmental stressors can manifest as problems for Brugmansia. Leaf yellowing might indicate overwatering, underwatering, or a deficiency in essential nutrients. A lack of blooms can be attributed to insufficient light, inadequate fertilization, or the plant being root-bound in its container. Sudden temperature changes can cause leaf drop, though some leaf loss is normal during dormancy. Addressing these environmental factors by adjusting watering, improving drainage, ensuring proper light exposure, or repotting can help resolve many common issues.