Brunfelsia latifolia, commonly known as Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow, is a tropical, ornamental flowering shrub known for its uniquely changing flower colors and delightful fragrance.
🌿 Botanical Description of Brunfelsia latifolia:
Common Names: Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow, Kiss Me Quick, Morning-Noon-and-Night
Scientific Name: Brunfelsia latifolia
Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
Origin: Native to Brazil
🌱 Plant Characteristics:
Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree
Height & Spread: Grows 3–10 feet (1–3 meters) tall and wide
Leaves:
Broad, oval to elliptical
Glossy, dark green, 2–6 inches (5–15 cm) long
Leathery texture with prominent veins
🌼 Flowers:
Color-Changing: Flowers bloom purple, fade to lavender, then turn white—giving the plant its "Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow" name
Shape: Tubular with five rounded lobes
Size: About 2 inches (5 cm) across
Fragrance: Sweet and strong, especially at night
Blooming Season: Spring to summer; in warmer climates, may bloom sporadically year-round
🌰 Fruit:
Small, capsule-like fruit (rarely seen in cultivated plants)
🌤️ Growing Requirements:
Light: Partial shade to full sun (prefers filtered sunlight)
Soil: Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
Watering: Regular watering, especially in dry seasons; avoid soggy soil
Temperature: Prefers warm climates (USDA zones 9–12); sensitive to frost
Humidity: Thrives in humid environments
⚠️ Toxicity:
All parts of the plant, especially berries and roots, are toxic if ingested—keep away from pets and children.
🌟 Landscape Use:
Ornamental shrub for gardens, hedges, or containers
Ideal for fragrant gardens or tropical-themed landscapes