Brugmansia, commonly known as Angel’s Trumpet, is a genus of seven species of flowering plants celebrated for their dramatic, pendulous, trumpet-shaped blossoms. These woody shrubs or small trees can grow rapidly, reaching heights of 6 to 15 feet in a single season. The large flowers, which can span up to 20 inches in length, often emit a powerful, sweet fragrance, particularly noticeable in the evening. Acquiring a healthy specimen is the first step toward enjoying this tropical beauty.
Sourcing Brugmansia Plants Online
Purchasing specialty plants like Brugmansia online offers access to a wider array of cultivars than typically found in local garden centers. Online nurseries often specialize in tropical or rare plants, offering unique flower forms, such as double or triple-skirted blooms, and less common color variations. The primary criteria for selecting an online vendor should be transparent customer reviews detailing the condition of shipped plants, and clear shipping guarantees that protect against damage or loss in transit.
A significant choice when buying online is the size of the plant, typically either rooted cuttings or small, established plants in four-inch pots. Rooted cuttings are the most economical option and typically have lower shipping costs, but they require more initial care and have a higher risk of failure. Conversely, a small established plant is more expensive to ship but offers a more robust root system and a higher chance of quick establishment. Always check the vendor’s policy for heat packs or cold-weather packaging, as these are necessary to ensure survival during transit outside of warm seasons.
Finding Local Growers and Retail Nurseries
While online shopping provides selection, sourcing a plant locally allows for immediate physical inspection and avoids the stress of shipping. General retail nurseries, such as large chain stores, may stock common Brugmansia varieties seasonally during the late spring and summer months. These specimens are often younger and may not be labeled with specific cultivar names, but they offer the benefit of instant gratification and visual confirmation of health.
For unique or mature specimens, the search should extend to specialized local growers, botanical garden sales, or regional plant society events. These sources often feature established plants that are already “Y-branched,” meaning the main stem has forked, a structural stage indicating the plant is mature enough to flower. Consulting with local horticultural groups or searching for regional tropical plant sales can uncover these smaller, dedicated growers. Buying locally eliminates the acclimation period required for shipped plants, allowing for a quicker transition to its new home.
Choosing the Right Cultivar and Healthy Specimen
Selecting a Brugmansia involves choosing a cultivar that appeals to your aesthetic preference, with options ranging from single-petaled flowers to elaborate double or triple forms. Flower colors span a spectrum that includes pure white, various shades of yellow and apricot, and deep pinks or reds. While most varieties can be grown in containers in non-tropical zones, some species, like those from higher elevations, prefer cooler nighttime temperatures and may struggle to bloom in intense, sustained heat.
Visual inspection is paramount to ensuring a healthy purchase. Look closely at the foliage for signs of common pests, particularly the underside of the leaves, which is a favorite hiding spot for spider mites and whiteflies. Spider mites create fine webbing, and heavy infestations cause a stippled, yellowish appearance on the leaves. The stem should be firm and free of soft, dark spots, which can indicate fungal issues like stem rot or bacterial infections. Avoid plants with significant leaf yellowing, as this often suggests root stress, overwatering, or a nutrient deficiency.
Essential Care Instructions Immediately After Purchase
Once your Brugmansia is home, its immediate care is focused on reducing transplant shock and establishing a strong foundation. A plant received via mail should be unpacked immediately, and any remaining packaging materials should be gently removed before giving it a thorough watering. The plant needs a period of slow acclimation; start with a few days in bright, indirect light before moving it to its final, full-sun spot.
Repotting into a container two to three inches larger than its current pot is necessary to encourage vigorous growth, using a well-draining potting mix amended with perlite or coarse material. During this initial handling and at all other times, it is necessary to wear gloves, as all parts of the Brugmansia plant contain highly toxic tropane alkaloids. These compounds, which include scopolamine and atropine, can be absorbed through the skin or cause irritation, so hands should be washed thoroughly immediately after handling the plant or soil.