PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect sunlight with gentle morning sun; avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorching
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging and root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost, as temperatures below 5°C cause leaf drop and permanent stem damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Large, ovate, velvety green leaves with serrated margins, reaching up to 30 cm in length
- Flower: Pendulous trumpet-shaped white to cream blooms, 15–25 cm long, emitting a strong sweet fragrance at night
- Stem: Woody branching stems with light brown, slightly fissured bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during hot dry spells
Fertilization
Feed every 2 weeks with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when growth enters dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute the tea 1:20 with water before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Remove spent blooms promptly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Prune overgrown branches in late winter to maintain a compact shape and improve air circulation
- Trim damaged or diseased stems immediately to prevent the spread of pathogens
- Thin crowded inner branches to allow sunlight to reach lower foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and abnormal heart rate
Humans: Contains tropane alkaloids; ingestion causes severe neurological, gastrointestinal, and cardiac effects
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes caution due to its high toxicity; sometimes associated with mystical and folkloric traditions in its native Andes region
Usage: Ornamental flowering shrub for gardens and large indoor displays; all plant parts are toxic and should not be consumed
