The “Today Tomorrow and Forever” plant, a popular ornamental, brings vibrant, changing colors to gardens and indoor spaces. Understanding its specific needs ensures healthy growth and abundant blooms, allowing gardeners to enjoy its distinctive beauty.
Understanding the “Today Tomorrow and Forever” Plant
The plant commonly known as “Today Tomorrow and Forever” is scientifically identified as Brunfelsia pauciflora. Its evocative common name originates from the remarkable characteristic of its flowers, which undergo a color transformation over approximately three days. Each bloom initially opens as a rich violet-purple, gradually fading to a pale lavender or blue, and finally maturing into an almost white shade before wilting. This continuous cycle of color change means the plant often displays all three hues simultaneously, creating a striking visual effect.
Native to the subtropical light woodlands and thickets of Brazil, Brunfelsia pauciflora is a bushy, semi-deciduous to evergreen shrub. It typically grows to a height of 3 to 8 feet (0.9 to 2.4 meters) with a spread of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters), though potted varieties remain smaller. The plant features glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and paler underneath. Its fragrant, five-lobed flowers, about 2 inches (5 cm) across, appear in clusters, often blooming profusely in spring and early summer, with repeat flowering possible under favorable conditions.
Caring for Your Plant
Light
Brunfelsia pauciflora thrives in full sun to partial shade, benefiting from protection during intense midday heat. Outdoors, positioning it under taller trees provides ideal filtered light. For indoor cultivation, bright, indirect light is preferred, ensuring adequate illumination without direct, scorching sunlight.
Soil
This plant requires moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. An acidic soil pH, just below neutral 7, is preferred for optimal growth and nutrient absorption. Incorporating compost or other organic amendments enhances soil fertility and drainage. Mulching with acidic materials like pine needles or peat moss helps maintain desired soil acidity and retain moisture.
Water
Consistent moisture is important; the soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering leads to root issues, while allowing the soil to dry out completely is also detrimental. Container-grown plants may need daily checks for moisture, especially during warm periods. During cooler months or dormancy, reduce watering frequency.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical species, Brunfelsia pauciflora flourishes in warm, humid conditions. It is winter hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, tolerating light frost but potentially becoming deciduous in cooler temperatures. Outside its hardiness zone, cultivate it in containers for indoor relocation when temperatures drop below 50-55°F (10-13°C). Maintain moderate to high humidity, especially for indoor plants, by misting or placing pots on trays with damp pebbles.
Fertilizer
Regular fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK ratio, is suitable. For outdoor plants, a monthly application during the growing season is sufficient. Container plants benefit from feeding every one to two weeks due to faster nutrient depletion. Acid-loving plant formulations help maintain the preferred soil pH.
Pruning and General Maintenance
Pruning Brunfelsia pauciflora maintains its shape and encourages continued blooming. A light trim after the main flowering period in spring and early summer keeps the plant tidy and promotes bushier growth. Deadheading spent blooms, which involves removing faded flowers, directs the plant’s energy towards producing new flowers rather than seeds.
Heavier pruning to control size or shape can be done after a bloom cycle or in late winter. Pinching out the tips of young plants encourages branching, leading to a fuller, more compact shrub. For older, overgrown plants, a more drastic pruning can be performed in spring, removing up to half of the previous year’s growth.
Important Considerations
All parts of the Brunfelsia pauciflora plant are toxic if ingested, especially the berries. This toxicity, primarily due to compounds like brunfelsamidine, can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in animals. Exercise caution when the plant is present in areas accessible to pets and young children.
While generally disease-free, the plant can be susceptible to common garden pests. Aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies may occasionally infest the plant, particularly in enclosed environments like greenhouses. Regular foliage inspection helps in early detection. Infestations can often be managed by washing the plant with a gentle stream of water or using appropriate horticultural treatments. Ensuring adequate humidity helps deter spider mites.