Family: Solanaceae
Brugmansia × candida, commonly known as angel’s trumpet, is a striking ornamental shrub or small tree prized for its large, pendulous, trumpet-shaped flowers that release a powerful fragrance, especially at night. A hybrid originally derived from South American species, it grows quickly in warm climates and is widely planted for its showy blooms and tropical appearance. Angel’s trumpet is often used in home gardens, landscaping, and as a focal point tree where its dramatic flowers can be appreciated up close.
However, Brugmansia × candida comes with notable concerns. All parts of the plant are highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested, containing potent alkaloids that can cause severe illness. In Hawaii, it is cultivated but not known to be invasive or naturalized, and it does not pose significant ecological threats. Still, its toxicity and potential for accidental poisoning make it a plant that should be handled and placed with care, especially around children and pets.
High Risk Traits:
- Naturalized outside native range (tropics/subtropics)
- History of repeated introductions
- Tolerates varied soils and light conditions
- Toxic to humans and animals
- Produces viable seeds
- Propagates vegetatively (cuttings, layering)
- Tolerates heavy pruning/transplanting
- Possible water dispersal (riparian zones)
Low Risk Traits:
- Not documented as an agricultural, forestry, or environmental weed
- Does not climb or form dense thickets
- Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs
- Not allelopathic or parasitic
- Low prolific seed production (<1000 seeds/m²)
- No persistent seed bank
- Not adapted for wind or bird dispersal
