The Brugmansia suaveolens, commonly known as Angel’s Trumpet, is a plant with large, trumpet-shaped flowers that has been cultivated in a local garden for about two decades. The plant was originally purchased and cared for by the author’s mother before being transplanted after her passing.
The Angel’s Trumpet features white and salmon-colored blooms that appear from late spring until the first frost. To prevent it from overtaking the garden space, it is regularly trimmed to maintain a height of about 10 feet.
Recently, observations were made regarding the plant’s fragrance patterns. “I was walking through the garden the other evening, and I noticed a strong, sweet-smelling fragrance near the gazebo. I followed the scent and determined that it was coming from the open Angel’s Trumpet flowers. I thought it was interesting that the flowers were open in the evening,” wrote Paula Pashby in her blog. She noted that during daylight hours, both scent and flower openness diminished.
According to information from University of Wisconsin-Madison referenced in Pashby’s research, this variety of Angel’s Trumpet emits its strongest fragrance at night to attract nocturnal pollinators such as night moths. This adaptation allows it to avoid competition with other plants for pollinators during daytime hours when more blooms are available.
The pale colors of its blooms also help night-flying insects locate them after dark. In exchange for nectar, these pollinators assist with fertilization and reproduction of the plant.
There are safety concerns associated with cultivating Angel’s Trumpet due to its toxicity. The North Carolina State Extension provides guidance on this issue:
“Poison Elements: This plant is poisonous through ingestion and/or inhalation of flowers, leaves, and seeds.
Poison Symptoms: Poisonous symptoms may include hallucinations, dry mouth, muscle weakness, increased blood pressure and pulse, fever, dilated pupils, and paralysis.
Poison Toxic Principle: Atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine
Causes Contact Dermatitis: No
Please be careful and wear gloves when handling.”
Gardeners are advised to exercise caution when planting or maintaining Angel’s Trumpet due to risks posed to humans and animals if ingested in significant amounts. The nectar can also be harmful to certain pollinators like honeybees.
Pashby concluded her reflections by highlighting how learning about these botanical adaptations contributes to her ongoing interest as a Master Gardener.
