Brugmansia aka Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple'

Taxonomy

Brugmansia, a genus of seven species in the nightshade family Solanaceae, is comprised of woody trees or shrubs with pendulous flowers. These plants, also known as angel's trumpets, boast large, fragrant flowers and lack spines on their fruit. They are closely related to the genus Datura. Brugmansia species are highly toxic ornamental plants, containing tropane alkaloids that are responsible for the toxicity and deliriant effects seen in jimsonweed and deadly nightshade. While all seven species exist only in cultivation or as escapees from cultivation, they are considered Extinct in the Wild according to the IUCN Red List. However, they continue to thrive as introduced species outside their native range. The disappearance of these plants from the wild is suspected to be linked to the extinction of animals that previously dispersed their seeds. Despite their toxicity, Brugmansia and other members of the Solanaceae family have medicinal value due to alkaloids like scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine, which possess spasmolytic, anti-asthmatic, anticholinergic, narcotic, and anesthetic properties. Some of these alkaloids are now artificially synthesized for medical purposes. One specific variety, 'Snow White,' is a tender shrub with semi-evergreen leaves that produces large, trumpet-shaped, scented flowers in summer and autumn, making it a popular ornamental plant.

Common names

Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple'

How to care for Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple'

Difficulty

Caring for Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple' is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple' should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple' loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple' requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple' is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Angel's Trumpet 'Shirley Temple' should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia