Brugmansia aurea — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Brugmansia aurea

Brugmansia Aurea

Updated · 34 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Brugmansia aurea, the golden angel's trumpet, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae, endemic to Ecuador. Since March 2014, it has been listed as Extinct in the Wild by the IUCN but before that, it was listed as Vulnerable.Despite being declared extinct in its native range, Brugmansia aurea is a popular ornamental and is widely cultivated, like the other members of its genus. It is sold and grown as a garden plant, described as a large evergreen subtropical shrub capable of growing to 20 ft (6.1 m) in height. The large, pendent, trumpet-shaped yellow or white blooms appear in summer and autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. The pleasant fragrance is strongest in the evening.

A note from PlantMom

Golden angel's trumpet shows strong disease resistance and is usually not susceptible to disease. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors, it needs only minimal watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Golden angel's trumpet is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not require extensive care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Brugmansia Aurea.

Light

Golden angel's trumpet does best in spots that get plenty of sunlight all day, similar to its native surroundings. As the plant matures, it can tolerate full daytime sun without harm. However, if the sunlight becomes excessively intense, leaves may become scorched. Conversely, too little light can result in stunted growth and poor flowering.

Temperature

Golden angel's trumpet is a plant native to mild climates where temperatures range from 59 to 95 °F (15 to 35 ℃). It prefers warm conditions and can withstand light frost. If temperatures drop significantly, consider relocating the plant indoors or providing appropriate insulation.

Fertilizer

Timing is vital for fertilizing Golden angel's trumpet. Start fertilizing in early spring and continue once a month until early summer. Fertilizer promotes attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.

Pruning

The golden angel's trumpet is a shrub known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers. To keep the plant healthy, prune it in early spring to remove dead branches and improve air circulation. After the plant has finished flowering, thin the canopy and cut it back to encourage more blooms. Regular pruning supports vigorous growth, and using clean tools helps prevent disease.

Pot & Repot

Golden angel's trumpet should be repotted every 2-3 years in a large, deep pot, ideally in the spring. After repotting, make sure to provide high humidity and indirect light. Consistent moisture and warmth are essential for its recovery and overall health.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Brugmansia
Family
Solanaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-10
Mature Height
10.06 m
Mature Spread
3.96 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen, Deciduous
Flower Color
Gold, Yellow
Flower Size
22.86 cm
Bloom Time
All year round
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
All year round
Native Area
Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Yellow angel's-trumpet en Golden angel's-trumpet en Borrachero en Culebra
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Golden angel's trumpet plant?

Your Golden angel's trumpet is not picky about how you water it. You can use any common watering tool – cans, hoses, cups – to water the plant. It's important to water directly onto the soil, making sure to evenly moisten all areas to support the whole root system. Filtered water is better than tap water, as tap water can harm the plant. It's also recommended to use room temperature or slightly warm water, as extreme temperatures may shock the plant. However, the Golden angel's trumpet generally responds well to any water you give it.

Why should I use fertilizer on my Golden angel's trumpet plant?

To help your Golden angel's trumpet bloom beautifully, it is important to fertilize it. One of the best times to do this is in early spring, as it ensures excellent flowers during that season. Fertilizer provides the plant with energy that it can store in the ground during dormant growth phases. By giving your Golden angel's trumpet extra nutrients during fall planting or late spring, it will have more energy to use once active growth resumes.

How many hours of sunlight per day does a Golden Angel's Trumpet need for healthy growth?

To promote healthy growth of Golden angel's trumpet, it is important to provide it with at least 3–6 hours of sunlight each day. This is the minimum amount of sunlight it requires. Although most plants that can tolerate partial sunlight can also do well in full sunlight, Golden angel's trumpet is more adaptable because it needs less light for photosynthesis compared to plants that require full sunlight or partial shade.

What temperature is best for Golden angel's trumpet?

Plants are affected by colder temperatures because their temperature matches the air around them. In sunlight, they can warm up, but this doesn't happen in winter. The Golden angel's trumpet thrives in temperatures between 70-85℉ (21-30℃). It can tolerate temperatures of 20-30℉ (-6-0℃) or even 15℉ (-10℃) briefly, but prolonged exposure can result in frost damage. To keep them healthy, make sure the maximum temperature remains within the range of 70-85℉ (21-30℃). Additionally, provide occasional watering and some shade to prevent wilting.

What should I do if I give my Golden angel's trumpet plant too much or too little water?

When planting outdoor plants, especially new ones or seedlings, be mindful that they may need extra watering. It is important to continue watering consistently for the first few months, especially when the tree is still small or newly planted. Once the roots are established, Golden angel's trumpet plants can rely on rainfall for most of their water needs. If you have planted your Golden angel's trumpet in pots, be cautious of overwatering. Should you accidentally overwater, take immediate action to resolve the situation. Stop watering the plant right away to minimize the impact of overwatering. Then, remove the plant from its pot to inspect the roots. If no root rot is present, you can return the plant to its container. However, if root rot is evident, trim away the affected roots and consider using a fungicide to prevent further damage. Repot the Golden angel's trumpet in well-draining soil. In the case of underwatering, simply increase the frequency of watering. This is a relatively easy fix. The plant's leaves may droop, dry out, and fall off when underwatered, but they will quickly regain their fullness after sufficient watering. If you notice signs of underwatering, make sure to adjust your watering schedule promptly.

When should I fertilize my Golden angel's trumpet for the best results?

To give Golden angel's trumpet the best care, timing is crucial when it comes to fertilizing. If you use fertilizer too early, when the plant is still dormant, it won't be effective and will simply be washed away by rainwater, which is wasteful and can cause pollution. It's best to apply the first round of fertilizer in early spring and continue fertilizing once a month until early summer.

What kind of sunlight does Golden angel's trumpet need?

Golden angel's trumpet thrives in full or partial sun. It thrives most when it receives direct morning light, but it requires protection from the intense afternoon sun during the summer. If exposed to excessive hot afternoon sun in temperate climates, the leaves may become burned, negatively impacting the plant's overall health and appearance.

Do I need to change the temperature for Golden angel's trumpets as they grow in different stages?

To successfully grow Golden angel's trumpet, it is important to research and ensure that the temperature is appropriate. Some growers may choose to lower their plants' thermostats during the growing season to save on HVAC costs. However, it is crucial to understand that temperature has an impact on the plants' flowering, pest control, and overall quality. During the winter, some species of Golden angel's trumpet may enter a dormant state, causing growth to halt. As the seasons change and the base temperature increases, the plant will grow more rapidly. Species naturally found in warm environments have higher optimum temperatures compared to those thriving in cooler climates. Exposing Golden angel's trumpet seeds to cool temperatures can lead to uneven growth and delays. It may be beneficial to lower the temperature during flowering, but it is not recommended during other phases. Cooler night temperatures also require less watering, so be sure to adjust irrigation accordingly.

How often do I need to water my Golden angel's trumpet?

Most outdoor plants can grow naturally with rainfall. If your area doesn't have much rainfall, you should water your plants adequately every 2 weeks in spring and fall. In the summer, you'll need to water them more often. During winter, when plants grow slower and need less water, you should water them sparingly. You might not need to water them at all during the winter. However, if your Golden angel's trumpet is young or newly planted, you should water it more frequently to help it establish and grow into a drought-tolerant plant. For potted plants, there are two main ways to determine how often to water your Golden angel's trumpet. The first way is to follow a set watering schedule, which could be once a week or once every other week. However, this may not always be reliable as it doesn't consider the specific conditions of your growing environment. Another approach is to base your watering frequency on the moisture level of the soil. It's generally best to wait until the top 2 to 4 inches of soil, about ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have completely dried out before watering again.

When should I not put fertilizer on my Golden angel's trumpet?

To ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms of the Golden angel's trumpet, it is important to consider its fertilizer needs. Avoid using a fertilizer with excessive nitrogen content, as this promotes excessive leaf growth but inhibits flower production. Look for a fertilizer that has a lower level of nitrogen compared to other essential nutrients. Furthermore, refrain from fertilizing the Golden angel's trumpet after early autumn, as this can encourage excessive growth right before winter, which may weaken the plant. Additionally, avoid fertilizing the plant during hot and dry periods, as dry soil is less effective in delivering the nutrients. Fertilizing during such times can also stimulate growth, demanding more water that may not be readily available. It is advisable to apply fertilizer during cooler temperatures earlier in the season. Lastly, bear in mind that the Golden angel's trumpet can absorb fertilizer applied to neighboring plants or lawns. To prevent accidentally giving the tree or shrub an excess dose of fertilizer, exercise caution in this regard.

Can sunlight harm Golden angel's trumpet? How can I keep Golden angel's trumpet safe from the sun and heat?

When moving Golden angel's trumpet plants from indoors to outdoors, it's important to be cautious of direct sunlight. To prevent sunburn, gradually transition the plants from a shaded area to a brighter location. However, even when acclimated to the summer sun, extreme heat can still harm the plants. To protect them during heatwaves, it's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist. Additionally, consider relocating containers to areas with afternoon shade or covering them with a shade cloth for added protection.

How do I make sure Golden angel's trumpet stays warm during cold seasons?

To help your plant adjust to colder temperatures, stop fertilizing it to prevent new growth and allow the existing growth to become hardier. To keep the Golden angel's trumpet warm, you can build structures like cages or trellises around it. Another option is to use heat mats, which can gently warm the soil and maintain a consistent and ideal temperature range for the plant.

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