Angel's-trumpet (Brugmansia suaveolens) is a fast-growing, large shrub or small tree known for its pendulous, trumpet-shaped, fragrant white to yellow flowers. It is high
Brugmansia suaveolens, commonly known as night bells, is a striking flowering plant native to the coastal regions of southeastern Brazil. This species belongs to the Solanaceae family, which also includes tomatoes and potatoes, but is renowned for its ornamental beauty and potent fragrance rather than its edibility. It is a fast-growing, woody shrub or small tree that can reach heights of up to 5 meters (16 feet) in its natural habitat, though it is often kept smaller in cultivation. The plant is characterized by its large, ovate to elliptical leaves, which are typically soft and somewhat hairy, measuring between 10 to 30 centimeters (4 to 12 inches) in length. The leaf margins are usually entire or slightly undulate.
The most captivating feature of Brugmansia suaveolens is its spectacular inflorescence. It produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that hang downwards, hence the common name "night bells." These flowers are typically white or pale yellow and can be up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) long and 15 centimeters (6 inches) wide at the opening. They are famously fragrant, emitting a sweet, intoxicating scent, particularly in the evening and at night, which attracts nocturnal pollinators like moths. The flowers are solitary or borne in small clusters. The fruit, when produced, is a capsule, often elongated and somewhat spiny, containing numerous seeds. The bark is generally smooth and grayish.
Brugmansia suaveolens thrives in warm, humid climates and prefers well-drained soil. It is often found growing in riparian areas, along riverbanks, and in moist forests within its native range. In cultivation, it is widely grown as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions and can be successfully grown in containers in cooler climates, where it is brought indoors during frost. It requires ample sunlight or partial shade and consistent moisture, though it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Historically, Brugmansia species have been recognized for their psychoactive properties due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, such as scopolamine and atropine. While these compounds are present in Brugmansia suaveolens, its use in traditional medicine or for recreational purposes is less documented compared to some other Brugmansia species. It is crucial to note that all parts of Brugmansia suaveolens are considered toxic if ingested, and handling the plant, especially the flowers and seeds, should be done with caution. Its primary significance today lies in its ornamental value, bringing a touch of the exotic and a delightful fragrance to gardens and conservatories worldwide. The plant's adaptation to attract nocturnal pollinators through its strong evening fragrance is a fascinating example of plant-animal interaction.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Light
Full sun to partial shade
80% intensity
Water
Consistently moist, high demand
100% intensity
Soil
Well-draining, rich, fertile loam
50% intensity
Temperature
Warm, frost-sensitive
80% intensity
Habitat
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Fertilizer
Heavy feeder, regular during growth
90% intensity
Night Bells Toxicity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
Toxicity details for Night Bells
Attribute
Value
Toxic for humans
Yes
5/5 intensity
Toxic for pets
Yes
5/5 intensity
Edible
No
All parts of the plant are highly toxic due to the presence of tropane alkaloids such as scopolamine, atropine, and hyoscyamine. Ingestion can cause severe illness, hallucinations, paralysis, and can be fatal to humans and animals.
Night Bells Quick Facts
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Plant Type
Shrub, Tree
Plant Category
Flowering, Ornamental
Plant Place Type
Garden, Pot
Plant Environment
Outdoor, Greenhouse
Lifespan
Perennials
Plant Height
2-5 m
Spread
1.5-3 m
Growth Rate
Fast
Dormancy
Evergreen to semi-deciduous
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Ovate
Flower Size
20-30 cm
Optimal Sunlight Lux
75000
Weed Status
Yes
Care guide for Night Bells
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water
Angel's-trumpet requires abundant and consistent watering, especially during warm weather and active growth. The soil should remain consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months or if the plant enters a semi-dormant phase. Container-grown plants will need more frequent watering than those in the ground.
Pruning
Prune Brugmansia suaveolens to maintain shape, size, and encourage branching and more flowers. The best time is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Avoid cutting into the "Y" shaped forks as these are where flowers form.
Propagation
Easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long, stripped of lower leaves, and can be rooted in water or a moist, well-draining potting mix.
Keep them warm and humid until roots develop, which typically takes a few weeks.
Repotting
Young plants in containers should be repotted annually into a slightly larger pot with fresh, rich potting mix.
Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or have the top layer of soil replaced (top-dressed) to refresh nutrients. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · FebPeak fruit · Feb
FloweringFruiting
Image Gallery
Photos of Night Bells (Brugmansia suaveolens)
Night Bells Names & Synonyms
Common names and botanical synonyms
Common Names
Angel's Tears
Angel's Trumpet
Night Bells
White Angel's Trumpet
Synonyms
Datura gardneri Hook.
Datura suaveolens Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.
Pseudodatura suaveolens (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) Zijp
Night Bells Taxonomy
Botanical classification
Taxonomic classification of Night Bells
Rank
Name
kingdom
Plantae
division
Tracheophyta
class
Magnoliopsida
order
Solanales
family
Solanaceae
genus
Brugmansia
species
Brugmansia suaveolens
Night Bells FAQs
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
How often should I water my Angel's-trumpet?
Angel's-trumpet requires frequent and thorough watering, especially during warm, dry periods and when actively growing. The soil should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged.
What kind of light does Brugmansia suaveolens need?
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch, but ample light is crucial for abundant flowering.
Is Angel's-trumpet poisonous?
Yes, all parts of Brugmansia suaveolens are highly toxic if ingested, containing potent tropane alkaloids. It can cause severe illness or even be fatal to humans and pets.
How do I prune my Angel's-trumpet for best blooms?
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove dead wood. Crucially, avoid cutting below the "Y" shaped forks on branches, as these are the primary sites for flower production.
Can I grow Brugmansia suaveolens in a pot?
Yes, Angel's-trumpet can be successfully grown in large containers. Ensure the pot has good drainage and the plant receives adequate water and fertilizer, as container plants dry out faster.