Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant, also commonly known as Brunfelsia pauciflora, Brunfelsia calycina, or Brazil rain tree, is a captivating flowering shrub renowned for its unique tri-color blooms. This botanical wonder displays flowers of purple, lavender, and white all at the same time, creating a truly spectacular visual display, making it a favorite among plant enthusisasts.
This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Gardencenterpoint.com, will delve into every aspect of this fascinating plant. From detailed care instructions and propagation techniques to addressing common troubleshooting issues like lack of flowering, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover the secrets to cultivating a thriving Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant in your own garden.
| Common name | Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plant, Kiss Me Quick, Morning-Noon-and-Night, Brazil Raintree |
| Botanical name | Brunfelsia pauciflora |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Brunfelsia |
| Species | pauciflora |
| Origin | Brazil |
| Native | South America (specifically Brazil) |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Plant type | Shrub (Evergreen in suitable climates) |
| Hardiness zone | 9, 10, 11 (Can be grown in containers in colder zones) |
| Sunlight | Partial Shade, Filtered Sunlight (Morning sun, afternoon shade preferred) |
| Maintenance | Low to Moderate |
| Water | Moderate (Keep consistently moist, but not waterlogged) |
| Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Soil pH | Slightly Acidic (5.5 to 6.5) |
| Spacing | 4-6 ft. apart |
| Flowering period | Spring to Summer (May vary depending on climate) |
| Height | 4-8 ft. (Some varieties may reach 10 ft.) |
| Width | 4-8 ft. |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flower color | Purple, Lavender, White (All three colors present simultaneously) |
| Foliage color | Dark Green |
| Flower benefit | Fragrant, Tri-Color Blooms, Long Blooming Season |
| Stem color | Brown (Mature stems become woody) |
| Garden style | Tropical, Cottage, Informal |
| Uses | Specimen Plant, Hedge, Container Plant, Mixed Border, Sensory Garden |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans and animals if ingested |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate (May offer some deterrence) |
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plant: A Complete Overview
The Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant (Brunfelsia pauciflora) is a member of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and petunias. Native to Brazil, this evergreen shrub thrives in warm, humid climates, typically USDA hardiness zones 9-11. However, it can be successfully grown in containers in cooler regions and brought indoors during the winter months. What sets this plant apart is its remarkable floral display. The flowers open as a deep purple, gradually fade to lavender, and finally turn white before withering. This unique characteristic, with all three colors present simultaneously, gives the plant its evocative common name.
A study published in the journal HortScience examined the pigment changes in Brunfelsia flowers. The researchers found that the color shift is due to a decrease in anthocyanin concentration and a corresponding increase in pH within the flower petals. This natural process creates the stunning multi-colored effect that gardeners admire. It typically grows to a height and width of 4-8 feet, though some varieties can reach up to 10 feet. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and elliptical. The plant’s overall growth habit is dense and rounded, making it suitable for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or container planting. Beyond its visual appeal, Brunfelsia pauciflora emits a delicate fragrance, particularly in the evening. This sweet scent adds another layer of sensory enjoyment to the gardening experience. The fragrance is often described as similar to jasmine or gardenia, although it’s generally less intense.
It’s important to note that all parts of the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant are considered toxic if ingested, especially the berries and seeds. This toxicity is due to the presence of alkaloids. While not typically fatal to humans, ingestion can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and, in severe cases, tremors or seizures. Pet owners, in particular, should exercise caution and keep the plant out of reach of animals. The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) lists Brunfelsia species as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Planting Your Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plant: A Step-by-Step Guide
Successful cultivation of the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant begins with proper planting. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
- Choosing the Right Location:
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to filtered sunlight. Ideally, it should receive morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hot climates. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can reduce flowering.
- Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil is crucial. A pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve drainage and aeration. A soil test can help determine the pH and nutrient levels of your soil.
- Protection: Choose a location sheltered from strong winds, which can damage the branches and flowers.
- Timing:
- The best time to plant is in the spring or early fall, after the danger of frost has passed and before the heat of summer sets in. This allows the plant to establish its roots before facing extreme temperatures.
- Planting Procedure:
- Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
- Preparing the Root Ball: Gently loosen the roots around the edges of the root ball to encourage outward growth. If the plant is root-bound, carefully make a few vertical slices along the sides of the root ball.
- Planting: Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
- Watering: Water the plant deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or shredded leaves, around the base of the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the stem. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Spacing (if planting multiple shrubs):
- Space plants 4-6 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plant Care: Maintaining a Healthy Shrub
Once established, the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant is relatively low-maintenance, but proper care is essential for optimal growth and flowering.
- Watering:
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
- Deep watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering, as it encourages deeper root growth.
- Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
- Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing water loss through evaporation and reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
- Fertilizing:
- Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring, as new growth begins.
- A second application of fertilizer can be applied in mid-summer. Follow product label directions carefully.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Consider using a fertilizer with added micronutrients, such as iron and manganese, to promote healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.
- Alternatively you can apply a liquid fertilizer, such as fish emulsion or seaweed extract, every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning:
- Prune lightly after the main flowering period (usually late spring or early summer) to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
- Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering in the following year. The flowers are produced on new growth.
- You can also lightly prune throughout the growing season to remove spent flowers and encourage bushier growth.
- Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and prevent the spread of disease.
- Pest and Disease Control:
- The Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, or fungal leaf spot.
- Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests or diseases.
- Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- For fungal diseases, improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can be used as a last resort.
- Good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilizing, are the best defense against pests and diseases.
- Winter Protection (for colder climates):
- In regions with cold winters (below USDA zone 9), grow the plant in a container and bring it indoors before the first frost.
- Place the container in a bright, cool location, such as a sunroom or a well-lit garage.
- Reduce watering and withhold fertilizer during the winter months.
- Gradually acclimate the plant to outdoor conditions in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Propagation: Creating New Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plants
There are several methods to propagate the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow plant:
- Stem Cuttings:
- This is the most common and reliable method.
- Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Insert the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of perlite and peat moss.
- Keep the cuttings moist and humid by covering them with a plastic bag or placing them in a propagation chamber.
- Roots should develop within 4-8 weeks. Once rooted, transplant the cuttings into individual pots.
- Seed Propagation:
- While possible, seed propagation is less common and more challenging.
- Collect seeds from ripe berries (note: berries are toxic).
- Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Germination can be erratic and may take several weeks or months.
- Layering:
- Ground layering can be used to propagate the plant.
- Select a low-lying branch and wound a section of it.
- Bury the wounded section in the soil, securing it with a stake or rock.
- Once roots have formed, sever the new plant from the parent plant.
Troubleshooting: Addressing Common Problems
- Lack of Flowers:
- Insufficient Light: Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight (partial shade or filtered light).
- Improper Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning, especially before the flowering season.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
- Over-Fertilizing: Too much nitrogen can promote foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Cold Temperatures: Protect the plant from frost and cold temperatures.
- Yellowing Leaves:
- Overwatering: Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Poor Drainage: Improve soil drainage by amending it with organic matter.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Iron deficiency can cause yellowing leaves (chlorosis). Use a fertilizer with added iron.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease caused by overwatering and poor drainage.
- Leaf Spot:
- This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves.
- Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
- Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Infestations:
- Identify the specific pest (aphids, mealybugs, spider mites) and treat accordingly.
- Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil are often effective.
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plant Varieties
While Brunfelsia pauciflora is the most common species, there are several other noteworthy varieties and related species:
- Brunfelsia pauciflora ‘Eximia’: A compact cultivar with larger flowers.
- Brunfelsia pauciflora ‘Floribunda’: Known for its abundant flowering.
- Brunfelsia pauciflora ‘Macrantha’:Produces very big purple flowers.
- Brunfelsia grandiflora: A larger species with fragrant, white flowers that age to yellow.
- Brunfelsia americana: Commonly called Lady of the Night, features incredibly fragrant, white flowers that bloom at night.
Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Plant Toxicity
As previously mentioned, all parts of the Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow plant are toxic. Keep the plants away from children and pets. Here’s a summary table:
| Part of Plant | Toxicity Level | Symptoms of Ingestion |
| All Parts | Moderate | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy |
| Berries/Seeds | High | Tremors, seizures (in severe cases) |