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brunfelsia pauciflora
Also known as: ["Raintree","Brazilian Raintree"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to South America, known for its fragrant flowers that change color over time.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Brunfelsia |
| Botanical Name: | Brunfelsia pauciflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun and afternoon shade in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for direct light; avoid west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden fluctuations.
Avoid drafty areas; use room thermometer; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring–summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, cover with plastic, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bag, misting spray, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, remove dead/diseased growth, and manage flowering cycles.
Tools
Clean pruners, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune after flowering, remove dead growth, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure drainage, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wet leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use pine bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or buds failing to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a heating mat if needed.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased water demand above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, water before feeding, stop in dormant period, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the solanaceous alkaloids in Brunfelsia pauciflora. Even small amounts can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, Brunfelsia pauciflora can induce significant toxicity due to its solanaceous alkaloids. These compounds disrupt the nervous system and can lead to severe anticholinergic effects, particularly in smaller breeds or those with pre-existing health conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBrunfelsia pauciflora contains solanaceous alkaloids, primarily atropine and scopolamine, which can cause mild to moderate physiological effects when ingested. These compounds interfere with acetylcholine receptors, leading to anticholinergic symptoms. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do the flowers change color?
A: The flowers of Brunfelsia pauciflora change color from purple to lavender to white as they age, a unique characteristic of this species.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Brunfelsia pauciflora is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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