Diseases of angel trumpets

Depending on the species and variety, there are differences in susceptibility to diseases. While B. sanguinea and B. x candida are considered to be very susceptible, B. arborea and B. aurea are more likely to be resistant.

However, nobody should get the idea that diseases, whether viral or fungal, are due to our region and the rather atypical husbandry. Viruses have also been discovered in the countries of origin in South America.

It is not easy for the hobby gardener to differentiate between the various diseases. The virus infestation in particular is so diverse that only laboratory tests can prove the uniqueness. Brugmansia is considered a host plant for numerous viruses. Clear indications are mosaic-like discolorations of the leaves which become larger in contrast with increasing time. This is followed by curvature and stunting of the shoot tips. Growth is severely inhibited and the plant may die. On the other hand, it can happen that diseased plants lose their symptoms if they are optimally supplied with fertilizer and water and these symptoms only reappear in autumn or the following year. Many a cutting has been used to unknowingly pass on the virus.

Much more dangerous is stem blight, which is caused by the tomato bronchovirus. This disease usually leads to death. As soon as brown spots are discovered on the stems and the plant begins to wither above the spots, it should be disposed of, as it is very likely that other plants will be infected by insect transmission.

A similar looking disease is stem rot. Black-brown glassy spots appear which dry out and turn pale. Over time, the entire stem area can be affected. In this area, the leaves curl and die. This disease is caused by a fungus. Although the genus is known, it has not yet been precisely identified. Repeated spraying with fungicides should stop this disease.

Leaf spot disease is a disease that looks threatening at first glance. The first signs look like sucking insects. Dark green spots with a light center appear, which dry up and can fall out. As the disease progresses, the leaves dry out and fall off. However, the plant usually recovers after a few weeks.