Brugmansia × cubensis ‘Charles Grimaldi’ is a hybrid angel’s trumpet, bred from South American species. It’s renowned for its immense, trumpet-shaped, golden-orange flowers that release a powerful fragrance at dusk. The plant’s broad, velvety leaves and pendulous blooms give it an exotic, tropical appearance perfect for dramatic garden displays.
| KEY PLANT INFORMATION | |
|---|---|
| Plant Type: | Shrub / Small tree |
| Plant Colours: | Green / Yellow / Orange |
| Flowering period: | Summer / Autumn |
| Mature Height: | 180–300 cm tall (6–10 feet) |
| Light Requirements: | Part shade – Full sun |
| Water Requirements: | Moderate |
| Cold Hardiness: | -3°C (27°F) |
| Difficult: | Intermediate |
Plant Type
Shrub / Small tree
‘Charles Grimaldi’ is a fast-growing, woody perennial shrub or small tree belonging to the Solanaceae family. It’s evergreen in frost-free climates, semi-deciduous in cooler ones, and admired for its showy flowers and long bloom season. Commonly cultivated as an ornamental, it brings a lush, tropical ambiance to gardens or patios. The flowers are ,oust fragrant during the twilight and night time hours so it’s best grown near an area where you can enjoy warm evenings.
Mature Height
180–300 cm tall (6–10 feet)
When mature, Brugmansia × cubensis ‘Charles Grimaldi’ typically grows 180–300 cm tall (6–10 feet), sometimes larger in ideal conditions. With regular pruning, it can be shaped into a bush or small tree. Its expansive canopy and abundant, drooping flowers make it a commanding focal point in any landscape. Regular feeding is required during the active growing seasons to maintain health and promote flowering.
Light Requirements
Partial shade – Full sun
This Brugmansia variety thrives in full sun to partial shade. At least six hours of direct sunlight daily promotes vigorous growth and heavy flowering. In very hot regions, some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch. Sheltered positions protect it from strong winds, which can damage its large leaves and blooms.
Water Requirements
Moderate
‘Charles Grimaldi’ prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It has a high water demand during active growth and flowering, especially in warm weather. Avoid letting the soil dry completely, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Cold Hardiness
-3°C (27°F)
Brugmansia × cubensis ‘Charles Grimaldi’ is frost-tender, hardy to about -3°C (27°F) but only for very short periods of time, suitable for USDA Zones 9–11. In cooler climates, it can be grown in large containers and overwintered indoors or in a greenhouse. Frost can kill top growth, but plants may regrow from the base if protected.
