Brunfelsia latifolia (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow)
Brunfelsia latifolia is a compact, evergreen shrub valued for its highly distinctive flowers that change colour over time. Native to South America, this plant produces masses of fragrant blooms that open as deep violet-purple, gradually fade to lavender, and finally turn white. The presence of multiple colour stages at once gives the plant its common name, “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.”
The foliage consists of dense, glossy green leaves that provide a rich backdrop to the changing flowers. Its neat, bushy growth habit and seasonal flowering make it a popular choice for both garden planting and decorative containers.
Key Features
The primary appeal of Brunfelsia latifolia is its colour-changing flowers combined with a light, pleasant fragrance. Flowering typically occurs in spring and can repeat intermittently under favourable conditions.
It forms a compact shrub with a naturally rounded shape, requiring minimal shaping. The combination of ornamental flowers and tidy foliage makes it suitable for both feature planting and structured garden designs.
Growth Habit and Size
Brunfelsia latifolia grows as a dense, rounded shrub. In garden conditions, it typically reaches 1 to 2 metres in height and spread, though it can be maintained smaller with pruning.
When grown in containers, size is generally more compact, making it suitable for patios, courtyards, and balconies.
Growth rate is moderate under warm conditions with consistent care.
Care Requirements
Light
Prefers bright light to partial shade. It performs best with morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon exposure, particularly in warmer climates.
Watering
Requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during active growth and flowering periods. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Watering frequency will vary with climate and season, but generally 1–2 times per week is suitable, with increased frequency in warmer conditions.
Soil
A well-draining, fertile soil is essential. Slightly acidic soil conditions are preferred for optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature and Climate
Thrives in warm, subtropical to tropical climates. Ideal temperature range is approximately 18°C to 30°C.
It is sensitive to frost and should be protected in cooler regions. In colder climates, it is often grown in pots and moved to sheltered positions during winter.
Maintenance
Pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact shape and encourages denser growth. Light trimming is generally sufficient, as the plant naturally forms a tidy structure.
Fertilising during the growing season supports flowering and overall plant health. A balanced fertiliser applied periodically is adequate.
Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Common Issues
Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient imbalance.
Reduced flowering can result from insufficient light or lack of nutrients.
Leaf drop may occur if the plant is exposed to cold temperatures or sudden environmental changes.
Pests are generally minimal but may include aphids or scale in some conditions.
Applications
Brunfelsia latifolia is suitable for:
Garden beds and borders
Feature shrub planting
Hedging in warm climates
Patio and courtyard containers
Fragrant garden designs
Tropical and subtropical landscapes
Its changing flower colours make it particularly effective as a focal point during flowering periods.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Brunfelsia latifolia |
| Common Name |
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen flowering shrub |
| Mature Height |
1 m to 2 m |
| Growth Habit |
Dense, rounded |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate |
| Light Conditions |
Bright light to partial shade |
| Direct Sunlight |
Morning sun preferred; protect from harsh afternoon sun |
| Watering Frequency |
1–2 times per week; keep soil evenly moist |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
18°C to 30°C |
| Frost Tolerance |
Low; protect from frost |
| Humidity |
Moderate to high preferred |
| Fertiliser |
Regular feeding during growing season |
| Maintenance Level |
Low to moderate |
| Toxicity |
Toxic if ingested |
FAQ – Brunfelsia latifolia
Why do the flowers change colour?
The flowers naturally age from purple to lavender to white over several days, resulting in multiple colours appearing on the plant at once.
How often should it be watered?
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, typically 1–2 times per week depending on conditions.
Does it grow well in pots?
Yes, it performs well in containers provided it has good drainage and consistent care.
Can it tolerate full sun?
It prefers partial shade or gentle morning sun. Strong afternoon sun may cause stress or leaf burn.
Is it frost tolerant?
No, it is sensitive to frost and should be protected in cooler climates.
How big does it grow?
Typically reaches 1–2 metres in height and spread, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
