Home

Strange Wonderful Things

 Rare and exotic plants

Turquoise Puya

Brugmansia "Vulsa"

This is a rare look at Brugmansia vulcanicola × B. sanguinea, a gorgeous hybrid discovered in the cool mountains of Colombia.  Throughout the year, it makes salmon or orangey-pink blossoms that are truly exquisite.  Because of its highland origins, the plant isn't suitable for hot climates.  If you can provide the right conditions, it is an easy and very beautiful plant.  I don't know anyone currently offering it.

Brugmansia vulcanicola

 It was originally labeled Brugmansia vulcanicola by its discoverer, but it is now believed to be a naturally-occurring hybrid of Brugmansia vulcanicola and B. sanguinea.  The tree grows to about 12 to 14 feet tall here in San Francisco.  The blooms appear in waves throughout much of the year, including winter.  Each flower is 6 to 9 inches long, with pin-striping down the length of the corolla.  The blooms can last up to a week on the tree.  The plant is not self-fertile, but it can cross-breed with B. arborea, and of course B. vulcanicola and B. sanguinea.

Brugmansia vulcanicola and sanguinea

This Brugmansia is happiest with temperatures below the low 80s (28°C), with nights that are cool.  It might not thrive in consistently hot conditions, particularly if nights are warm (over 64°F / 18°C).  Mature plants can probably survive a few degrees of frost, but i recommend protecting it from freezing temperatures.  It looks the best in partly-sunny conditions, with some protection from strong afternoon sun.  Like other Brugmansias, it enjoys fertile, well-draining soil that's kept evenly moist.  Over about 40% humidity is best.

Brugmansia vulcanicola

Brugmansia vulcanicola

 

Check availability

 

Home

Strange Wonderful Things

Rare and exotic plants

Turquoise Puya

Entire site Copyright 2003-2023 by Strange Wonderful Things, except as noted