Brugmansia arborea - White Angel's Trumpet - plant 20-25 cm

Plant Description

Name: Brugmansia arborea
Common Name: Tree Angel's Trumpet, Tree Brugmansia

Brugmansia arborea, commonly known as the Tree Angel's Trumpet or Tree Brugmansia, is a striking, tropical shrub or small tree renowned for its dramatic, pendulous flowers and large, lush foliage. Native to the Andes Mountains of South America, this plant is a member of the Solanaceae family and is admired for its impressive, trumpet-shaped blooms that can be white, pink, or pale yellow. The flowers are large, often reaching lengths of 20-30 cm, and exude a strong, sweet fragrance, especially in the evening.

The Tree Angel's Trumpet grows as a small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of 3-7 meters, with broad, dark green, ovate leaves. It has a fast growth rate and a somewhat tropical appearance, making it a popular choice for adding dramatic flair to gardens and landscapes.

Cultivation of Brugmansia arborea

Conditions:

1. Light: Brugmansia arborea thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering, but it can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.
2. Temperature: This plant prefers warm climates and grows best in temperatures between 15-30 °C. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected or brought indoors if temperatures drop below 5 °C.
3. Soil: Brugmansia arborea prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a high organic content. A mix of loam, compost, and sand works well. It can adapt to a range of soil pH levels but performs best in slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
4. Water: Regular watering is essential, particularly during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. During the winter or cooler months, reduce watering frequency.

Planting and Care:

1. Planting: Plant Brugmansia arborea in a location with plenty of sunlight or filtered shade. Ensure the planting site has well-draining soil and enough space for the plant to spread, as it can grow quite large. In colder climates, consider growing it in a large container that can be moved indoors during winter.
2. Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or one formulated for flowering plants. Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms.
3. Maintenance: Prune regularly to maintain the plant's shape and remove any dead or damaged wood. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms. Brugmansia arborea is relatively pest-resistant but watch for common issues like aphids or spider mites and treat accordingly.

Growing from Seeds

1. Seed Preparation: Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to help soften the seed coat and enhance germination rates.
2. Sowing: Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix, such as a combination of peat and perlite. Plant the seeds about 1 cm deep in the soil.
3. Germination Conditions: Keep the seed tray in a warm, sunny location with temperatures around 20-25 °C. Maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging. Germination usually takes 2-4 weeks.
4. Care for Seedlings: Once seedlings emerge, provide them with bright, indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist. Gradually acclimate them to more direct light as they grow. Transplant them into larger pots or into the garden when they are large enough to handle.

Brugmansia arborea is a stunning addition to any garden with its large, fragrant flowers and tropical appearance, making it a favorite among gardeners looking for dramatic, exotic plants.