Brugmansia versicolor
Brugmansia versicolor
Angel’s Trumpet
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Taxonomy
Family Solanaceae · Genus Brugmansia
Description
Brugmansia versicolor, the richly perfumed Angel’s Trumpet, is a fast-growing tropical shrub or small tree bearing enormous, pendulous trumpets that shift from ivory to peach or soft pink. It thrives with warmth, sun, and generous water, creating a dramatic, evening-fragrant focal point in gardens or large containers.
Common Names
Angel’s TrumpetEcuador Angel’s TrumpetBrugmansia
Context
nativeRegion
Coastal Ecuador and surrounding northwestern South America.
usdaZones
9b–11 (grown as a container plant and overwintered indoors in cooler zones).
companionPlants
Canna indica, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Colocasia esculenta, Salvia guaranitica, Tibouchina urvilleana, Fuchsia hybrids, Hedychium (ornamental ginger)
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental for dramatic, evening-fragrant displays; historically noted in some Andean traditions—extremely toxic, not for ingestion. Attracts moths and hummingbirds.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to bright partial shade; provide afternoon shade in very hot climates.
WateringKeep evenly moist; water deeply and frequently in warm weather. Do not allow to dry out completely.
SoilRich, well-draining mix with organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~6.0–7.0).
FertilizerHeavy feeder—apply balanced fertilizer weekly in growing season; switch to a bloom booster as buds form; include micronutrients (e.g., magnesium).
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity (50%+).
TemperatureIdeal 60–85°F (16–29°C). Protect below 50°F (10°C); frost will damage or kill growth.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitWoody shrub to small tree with branching Y-shaped framework and large, soft leaves.
Mature Size6–15 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide (smaller in containers, larger in ideal climates).
Growth RateFast growth in warm conditions with regular feeding and water.
BloomingFlushes from late spring through fall; largest fragrance at dusk and night; flowers ivory to apricot/pink.
DormancySemi-dormant or deciduous in cool weather; can be overwintered cool and dry indoors.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings (softwood/semi-hardwood), Air layering, Seed
DifficultyEasy by cuttings; moderate from seed (variable and slower).
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings and air layering; sow seeds in late winter to spring.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune after main bloom cycles and late winter to shape; retain Y-shaped branches where flowers form; remove dead, weak, and crossing wood.
RepottingRepot annually or refresh soil in large containers (15–25+ gal) as roots fill the pot; ensure excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, caterpillars, and snails/slugs; prevent root rot with drainage; possible fungal leaf spots in humid, stagnant air.
ToxicityHighly toxic (tropane alkaloids) in all parts; ingestion can be fatal. Sap may irritate skin. Keep away from children, pets, and livestock; wear gloves when handling.
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