Brunfelsia americana (Lady of the Night) Plant

Description

Brunfelsia americana, commonly known as Lady of the Night, is a fragrant flowering shrub native to the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of northern South America. It belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which also includes plants such as tobacco, datura, and tomatoes.

This attractive tropical shrub is best known for its highly perfumed flowers, which release a strong sweet fragrance during the evening and night. The blooms are creamy white when they first open and gradually fade to yellow as they age. Flowers are tubular and elegant, often appearing in abundance during warm weather.

Brunfelsia americana typically grows between 1–3 metres tall and prefers warm, humid climates with well-drained soil. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental garden plant in tropical and subtropical regions. The glossy green foliage and intensely fragrant flowers make it popular for patios, courtyards, and scented gardens.

Traditionally, some Brunfelsia species have been used in Caribbean and South American folk practices, though caution is strongly advised. Many members of the Brunfelsia genus contain toxic alkaloids and other compounds that may be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning can include tremors, seizures, gastrointestinal distress, and nervous system effects. For this reason, the plant should be regarded primarily as an ornamental species and kept away from pets and children.

• Common name.

Queen of the Night; American Brunfelsia.

• Specifications.

50mm Pot Size
Cutting Grown Plant

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Brunfelsia americana is well suited to warm temperate, subtropical, and tropical climates. They prefer full sun to semi-shade, regular watering and free draining soil. Frost sensitive.

Pruning: Regular pinching or pruning encourages bushier growth and more flowering points. Can be heavily trimmed—very resilient and quick to regrow.

Pests and Diseases: Brunfelsia americana is generally hardy, but may occasionally be affected by pests like aphids, scale and fruit fly. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, Eco Oil or Neem Oil 

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: We recommend and use Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. We also stock an Australian Made liquid indoor fertiliser The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food which is easy to use and odourless

• We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

• We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

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