The species of Brugmansia

Today there are basically 6 wild species with the associated hybrids. These are again divided into 2 groups which, according to current knowledge, are not interbreedable.

One group consists of B.arborea, B.sanguinea and B.vulcanicola with the hybrid B.x flava (B.arborea x B.sanguinea). Recently, B.x flava has been labelled B.x rubella.

The other group includes B. aurea, B.suaveolens and B.versicolor with their hybrids B.aurea hybrid "Culebra", B.x candida (B.aurea x B.versicolor), B.x insignis (B.suaveolens x B.versicolor).

The crosses within the group have resulted in multiple hybrids that can no longer be clearly categorised. The individual characteristics of the crossed species overlap to such an extent that only hints of the characteristics of the species involved can be recognised. These multiple hybrids are classified as B.x cubensis.

The extent to which human influence plays a role in the spread of the plants and the development of the "natural hybrids" cannot be clearly demonstrated. However, both B.x candida and B.x insignis do in fact occur in the wild. Although they have been known for a very long time, it was only in the 1970s that backcrossing proved that they were hybrids and not independent species.

For the lover of these beautiful plants, however, it should not play the decisive role whether a clear identification is possible. Rather, they should enjoy the pretty flowers and the fragrance they exude. Even in garden centres and DIY stores, plants are offered with fantasy names that do not allow any conclusions to be drawn about their origin. However, this often results in care errors that can lead to the loss of the plants. Treatment with growth-inhibiting preparations also distorts the true size and appearance of the plants.

Seeking advice from growers and then acquiring the plant that fulfils the relevant requirements is one way of enjoying your plants for a long time. Contacts in specialised forums can also be very helpful.