RJ posted on April 23, 2010 01:56
The region in which this Brugmansia is found is an area located in the foothills of eastward slopes known regionally as the Rio Topo-Rio Zuñac basin in central Ecuador. The valley is bordered on the east by the Cordillera Abitagua, a very rich center of plant endemism with many endemic species, being mostly orchids. Though the higher parts of the Cordillera Abitagua are part of the Llanganates National Park, the rich soil middle slopes and the lower Topo-Zuñac valley are unprotected territories. The plant and wildlife are in danger of being lost due to modernization.
This vulcanicola features comparatively large, erect foliage with dentations that are somewhat unique to this particular Vulcanicola. The color is a very deep, rich gold, which sometimes can appear to be a rich orange. The calyx and peduncles may even exhibit a slight purplish or chocolate brown ribbing and general appearance. There is no fragrance, but the enticing color and form alone are enough to make up for this delicate beauty.
*photos appear courtesy of Matt V. (insignis)
Even before opening, it is nearly fully colored.
Brightly colored inner corolla.
Note the unusual coloration on the calyx.
The end result is a beautifully formed and magnificently colored work of art.
