Angel’s trumpet is a showy and unique addition to any garden and is prized for its flowers which have a trumpet shape and a variety of colors including yellow, orange, white, pink, or red. Use extreme caution, however, as all parts of angel’s trumpet are poisonous when ingested.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Award-winning Brugmansia suaveolens (Snowy Angel’s Trumpet) is a semi-evergreen, tropical shrub or small tree boasting huge and magnificent, pendulous trumpet-shaped, white flowers, 12 in. long (30 cm), from midsummer to fall.
This tree can grows up to 3-8 ft. tall (150-240 cm) and 2-4 ft. wide (60-90 cm). Sparkling against the foliage of large, oval, mid-green leaves, the flowers exude a strong fragrance in the evenings and actively open and close depending on the time of day. This flowering shrub makes a terrific accent or specimen plant.
Angel’s trumpets are extremely toxic to humans. All parts of these plants contain a suite of harmful alkaloids, although these are most highly concentrated in the leaves and seeds. Ingestion of these plant parts—even in small quantities—can lead to very serious illness.
Symptoms of angel’s trumpet poisoning include elevated heart rate, dilation of the pupils, the paralysis of smooth muscles, blurred vision, and, in extreme cases, death. Angel’s trumpets are highly sought-after ornamental plants and are most often found in greenhouses and gardens (they are, in fact, believed to be extinct in the wild). Thankfully, these plants have no close edible look-alikes, so cases of human ingestion are exceptionally rare.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Angel’s trumpet thrives best in conditions of full sunlight but can also adapt to partial sun. For optimal growth, the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct light daily. When subjected to less than ideal light, angel’s trumpet’s growth can be stunted, with potential impacts on health and decreased flowering. Angel’s trumpet is moderately adaptable, with some varieties capable of adjusting leaf orientation to maximize light absorption. In outdoor environments, angel’s trumpet should be positioned in spots that are bathed in sunlight, while indoors, it should be placed near south-facing windows to meet its light requirements.
Watering
Originating from the warm climates of South America, angel’s trumpet thrives in consistently moist soil conditions akin to its tropical rainforest origins. It exhibits a preference for high humidity and requires a balanced moisture environment to flourish. The watering regimen for angel’s trumpet should be adjusted to once every 1-2 weeks, ensuring that the soil remains hydrated but not waterlogged. As an outdoor plant often admired for its impressive, pendulous flowers, angel’s trumpet benefits significantly from mulching, which helps retain soil moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering.
Fertilizing
For vigorous growth and prolific blooming, fertilize angel’s trumpet every two weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Taper off to monthly in fall and cease in winter. Dilute to half-strength to prevent over-fertilization. Balancing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium supports root strength, flower development, and overall health. Monitor growth; adjust frequency for young plants or if signs of excess appear. Use personal protective equipment, as angel’s trumpet is toxic.
Pruning
Pruning after flowering to cause more flower production the following year and to maintain a compact appearance.
Propagation
Angel’s trumpet propagates best through cuttings, ideally during spring and summer. It has a moderate level of difficulty in propagation. Successful signs include new leaf growth and strong roots. Keep cuttings moist and warm during the process.
Transplanting
The perfect time for transplanting angel’s trumpet is from late spring to early autumn, as this period offers a conducive growing environment. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure. Remember, a gentle touch is key when handling angel’s trumpet during transplanting.
Winter Care
Angel’s trumpet hails from tropical South America and isn’t naturally adapted to cold winters. Unfortunately, this warm-loving species often succumbs to frost. For outdoor plants, gardeners should ensure angel’s trumpet is brought indoors or kept in a greenhouse over winter, receiving plenty of water and sunlight. For indoor potted angel’s trumpet, maintaining humidity and regular watering is vital to mimic its native conditions and ensure its survival through winter.
Repotting
Angel’s trumpet, a sizeable, fragrant bush, requires repotting every 2-3 years to accommodate its swift growth. The best time to repot is early spring, prior to the onset of the growth cycle. Select a large container with ample room for roots to prevent crowding. Post-repotting, ensure well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture for recovery. Avoid deep pots which can retain excessive water, risking root rot.
III. Uses and Benefits
Angel’s trumpet (Brugmansia suaveolens) is a very popular ornamental plant highly valued for its large, hanging trumpet-shaped flowers. This plant is well suited for specimen growth in patios and containers and in Mediterranean gardens. Angel’s trumpet looks excellent when you combine it with contrasting plants such as Caribbean copper plant and cranberry hibiscus.