Family: Solanaceae

Brunfelsia latifolia, commonly known as yesterday-today-and-tomorrow, is a beautifully ornamental shrub native to Brazil. It’s best known for its striking, fragrant flowers that open deep purple, fade to lavender, and finally turn white over several days—giving the plant its memorable name. This evergreen shrub grows into a rounded, medium-sized form with glossy leaves and blooms generously in warm seasons. Often planted for its showy color display and sweet scent, it is a popular choice for home landscapes, hedges, and decorative garden beds in tropical and subtropical climates.

In Hawaiʻi, Brunfelsia latifolia is not currently known to be invasive, and it is not widespread outside of cultivation. However, it belongs to a genus that includes species capable of naturalizing in some regions, so gardeners should take care to prevent unintended spread. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, especially to pets and livestock, which is an important consideration for home gardeners. With responsible planting and maintenance, this species can be enjoyed safely without posing a significant threat to Hawaiʻi’s natural areas.

High Risk Traits:

• Toxic to animals and humans if ingested
  
• Widely introduced as an ornamental
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Benefits from pruning/mutilation
  
• Propagules intentionally dispersed by people
  
• Seeds can survive gut passage (animal dispersal)
  
• Suited to tropical/subtropical climates

Low Risk Traits:

• Not invasive or naturalized
  
• No weedy behavior
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Limited seed production
  
• No persistent seed bank
  
• Not wind or water-dispersed
  
• Requires cross-pollination
  
• No evidence of vegetative spread