The Brugmansia, commonly known as Angel’s Trumpet, is a spectacular flowering plant celebrated for its rapid, vigorous growth and stunning, pendulous blooms. This tropical genus, native to South America, produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, or orange that often release a powerful, sweet fragrance, especially in the evening. While the plant offers a dramatic, exotic presence in the garden, it is important to recognize its significant danger: all parts of the Brugmansia contain highly toxic tropane alkaloids and are poisonous if ingested. Growing this show-stopper successfully requires intensive, specific care to mimic its native tropical environment.
Initial Planting and Environmental Needs
The selection of a planting location is paramount to the health and success of the Angel’s Trumpet, which thrives on abundant sunlight. Full sun exposure—meaning at least six hours of direct light daily—is generally recommended to maximize flowering potential. However, in regions with intense summer heat, the plant benefits from afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch and reduce the risk of rapid dehydration.
Brugmansia demands a rich, fertile, and well-draining soil composition to support its fast growth and heavy feeding needs. The ideal medium is slightly acidic and can be achieved by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Good drainage is essential, as the plant will not tolerate waterlogged conditions, which quickly lead to root rot.
For growers outside of tropical USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 11, container planting is the preferred method. Growing the plant in a large pot (ideally 5 to 7 gallons or larger) facilitates relocation indoors during cold months. When transplanting, ensure the root ball is gently loosened and positioned at the same level it was previously growing. Young plants should be gradually potted up into larger containers as their root systems develop.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Brugmansia is an exceptionally thirsty plant, requiring consistent soil moisture during the active growing season. Container-grown specimens may require watering once or twice daily during hot, sunny weather. The plant signals thirst by wilting, but repeated dehydration stresses the plant and inhibits blooming. Even with heavy watering, the potting mix must drain freely to avoid soggy soil and root issues.
These plants are heavy feeders, requiring a consistent supply of nutrients to fuel vigorous growth and massive flushes of flowers. During spring and summer, apply a water-soluble fertilizer weekly, or two to three times a week for large, actively growing plants. The most effective fertilizer is formulated for flowering plants with a low-phosphorus, high-potassium ratio (e.g., a tomato feed). Fertilization should be halted once the plant enters its dormant phase in the fall.
Pruning is necessary for shaping the plant and encouraging flower production. The most significant structural feature is the “Y” junction, where the main stem branches into woody stems. Flowers only develop on new growth that forms above this fork, so pruning for size control must preserve the upper, flowering wood. Annual pruning, typically performed in the fall or late winter, helps maintain a manageable shape and size for plants moved indoors.
During the summer months, growers must watch for common sap-sucking pests, including spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. Spider mites are a particular concern for plants in containers, especially when conditions are hot and dry. Regular inspection of the undersides of leaves and prompt treatment with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap are effective management strategies.
Preparing Brugmansia for Winter
Outside of frost-free tropical climates, preparing Brugmansia for winter is essential for survival. The plant must be moved indoors before the first hard frost, typically when nighttime temperatures drop below 7 to 10 degrees Celsius (45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). Before relocation, inspect the plant for pests and prune it back to reduce its size for easier storage.
The simplest overwintering method is to induce dormancy by storing the plant in a cool, dark, frost-free location, such as a basement or garage. The ideal temperature range for dormant storage is between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius (40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). The plant will naturally drop most of its leaves, and watering should be reduced to a minimum (usually once a month) to prevent the root ball from completely drying out.
Alternatively, the plant can be kept actively growing indoors if abundant light is available, such as a bright, south-facing window or a heated greenhouse. In this scenario, the plant is treated like a houseplant, requiring consistent but reduced watering and occasional light feeding. Regardless of the method, gradually reawaken the plant in early spring by increasing water and light exposure. It should not be moved back outdoors until the danger of frost has passed, and the reintroduction process must include hardening off the plant by slowly exposing it to direct sunlight over several days.