Brugmansia Problems

Brugmansia, commonly called Angel's Trumpet, is a flowering plant native to South America. It is a member of the Solanaceae family, which includes nightshade, potato, tomato and mandrake. Brugmansia is often confused with lookalike Datura. To tell them apart, remember that Brugmansia is a perennial (Datura is an annual) and Brugmansia's flowers droop (Datura's flowers stand erect).

Poison Problems

Brugmansia is poisonous and potentially harmful to humans and animals. All parts of the plant contain the tropane alkaloids scopolamine and atropine. Digesting parts of the plant will make you sick and can cause hallucinations; getting some of the plant's poison in your eyes can cause rapid dilation. Because it is so poisonous, some places ban the sale or growing of Brugmansia.

Cultivation

Brugmansia grows well in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. It can take part shade to full sun in USDA zones 7B to 11. Soil pH should be 6.1-7.8 Too-warm temperatures (over 95 degrees) may keep Brugmansia from flowering. When the plant is still small, be sure to stake it, as the trunk is quite brittle.

Fertilization

Brugmansia prefers liquid fertilizer, rather than slow-release versions. The best choice is a 12-6-8 fertilizer. The plants often need an extra boost of magnesium and nitrogen. If Brugmansia's leaves are turning yellow, try watering with a solution of one tablespoon of Epsom salts to a gallon of warm water.

Insect Problems

Brugmansia has a higher than average amount of insect problems. Spider mites are the most common, especially if you overwinter Brugmansia in the house or greenhouse. If you spot webbing on the leave's edges, look on the underside for tiny red dots. Miticides will get rid of them. Aphids, white flies and mealybugs will infest Brugmansia, particularly the newest shoots. To get rid of the aphids, purchase their natural predator, ladybugs, online to place in your garden. Or you can use an insect spray with Pyrethrum. Pyrethrum is also effective against mealybugs and white flies. Various types of caterpillars (both good and bad) will find Brugmansia; the safest treatment is to remove them by hand.

Survival in northern climates

In climates above 7B, you can overwinter your Brugmansia indoors. It can take cold, but not freezing, temperatures. If a frost threatens, simply move your plant into a garage or basement. It will go dormant. If you bring the plant indoors or into a greenhouse, you will need to keep watering it. It will continue to grow through the winter.