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Manacá-de-cheiro: how to grow the fragrant-flowered plant

Manacá-de-cheiro is a Brazilian species of fragrant flowers that changes color; see how to grow, water, fertilize, and care for the plant

By Yeska Coelho

Submitted at Sep 17, 2026, 10:00 AM

05 min de leitura
Manacá-de-cheiro: how to grow the fragrant-flowered plant

(Divulgação/Divulgação)

The manacá-de-cheiro (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow) is one of those plants capable of transforming the garden not only through beauty, but also through fragrance. Native to Brazil, the species draws attention for its flowers, which can display different shades during blooming, creating a delicate and ornamental atmosphere.

Besides being a good choice for outdoor areas, the plant can be cultivated in different seasons, as long as it receives the proper conditions of light, water, and soil. Below, check out the main characteristics and learn how to care for the species.

What is the manacá-de-cheiro?


The manacá-de-cheiro is a shrub belonging to the Solanaceae family and found naturally in different areas of South America. Its main distinguishing feature lies in its flowers: they usually appear in shades of violet or purple and, over time, become lighter, potentially reaching white before falling.

Fragrant Manacá

(Divulgação/Divulgação)

Another highlight is the fragrance, especially noticeable at certain times of the day. For this reason, the species is interesting for gardens where the sensory experience is also valued.

How to cultivate manacá-de-cheiro


The manacá-de-cheiro can be cultivated directly in the garden or in large pots, provided it has enough space to develop. In the soil, it is important to choose a location with good drainage and organic matter.

Manacá-de-cheiro

(Divulgação/Divulgação)

Regarding lighting, the species develops well in places with plenty of brightness and can receive direct sun, especially in regions where temperatures are not excessively high. In very hot areas, partial shade can help protect the plant during hours of greater solar intensity.

It is also important to consider the size of the shrub and to leave space around it so its branches can grow without obstacles.

Watering

Watering should keep the soil slightly moist, but never soaked. The frequency varies according to the climate, the season, the size of the plant, and the characteristics of the soil.

Before watering again, it is worth checking the moisture of the surface layer of the soil. If it is still moist, you can wait a little longer.

Fragrant Manacá

(Divulgação/Divulgação)

Excess water is especially harmful when the substrate has insufficient drainage, as it can lead to root problems.

Fertilization

Fertilization helps provide the nutrients needed for growth and for vigorous flowering. You can use well-cured organic matter and, according to the plant's needs, fertilizers suitable for ornamental species.

Application should follow the instructions of the product used, avoiding excess. More fertilizer does not necessarily mean more flowers, and an inadequate concentration can harm the plant.

How to grow it in a pot?


Cultivation in a pot is possible, mainly while the plant is smaller in size. In this case, the container needs to have drainage holes and dimensions compatible with the growth of the roots.

As the manacá-de-cheiro develops, it may be necessary to transplant it to a larger pot or move it to the ground. In containers, attention to watering and fertilization must also be greater, since the amount of available soil is limited.

This text was developed with the assistance of CASACOR Publisher, an exclusive content agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. The generated content was subsequently edited by Yeska Coelho.