Yesterday Today Tomorrow (single plant)

The Yesterday Today Tomorrow plant, known scientifically as Brunfelsia pauciflora, is a beautiful tropical shrub named for its unique, color-changing blooms. This plant produces fragrant flowers that start out purple, fade to lavender, and finally turn white over a span of three days, creating a colorful display.

Botanical Information

• Scientific Name: Brunfelsia pauciflora
• Family: Solanaceae
• Common Names: Yesterday Today Tomorrow, Morning Noon and Night, Kiss Me Quick
• Native Range: South America, primarily Brazil

Appearance

• Flowers: Flowers are about 2 inches wide, starting deep purple on the first day, fading to lavender on the second, and finally turning white on the third day. This color progression gives the plant its name.
• Leaves: Glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, creating a dense backdrop for the bright flowers.
• Growth Habit: A bushy, compact shrub that typically grows between 3–8 feet tall, depending on climate and pruning.

Growing and Care Requirements

1. Sunlight

• Requirement: Partial sun to partial shade. Too much direct sunlight in very hot climates can lead to leaf burn.
• Optimal Placement: Ideal in an area with morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day.

2. Watering

• Frequency: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate drought tolerance once established, but it performs best with consistent moisture.

3. Soil

• Type: Prefers well-draining, loamy, or sandy soil with good organic content.
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (5.5–7.0) is ideal.
• Enhancements: Add organic matter like compost or peat moss to retain moisture and enrich the soil.

4. Fertilizing

• Frequency: Fertilize every 6–8 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, or one formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it may reduce flowering.

5. Pruning

• When to Prune: Prune lightly after the blooming period or in early spring to shape the plant and promote denser growth.
• Purpose: Pruning helps maintain its compact size and can encourage more flowers.

6. Pest and Disease Management

• Pests: Susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage these pests.
• Diseases: Fungal diseases and root rot can occur if soil is poorly drained. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.

7. Temperature and Humidity

• Ideal Temperature: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates (USDA zones 9-12) and is sensitive to frost. In cooler areas, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.
• Humidity: Appreciates moderate to high humidity, making it well-suited for warm, humid environments.

8. Propagation

• Method: Propagated easily through semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Time: Take cuttings in spring or early summer, dip in rooting hormone, and place them in moist potting soil until roots establish.

The Yesterday Today Tomorrow plant is a wonderful addition to gardens and landscapes, with its fragrant, color-changing blooms bringing ongoing interest. This plant also does well as a container plant, making it versatile for gardens and patios in various climates.