Devil's Trumpet (Datura spp.) Plant Profile

Datura Plant Profile

Devil’s Trumpet (Datura spp.) is an herbaceous (non-woody) plant that is an annual in our region. It is hardy to USDA Zones 9-10. Some Datura are native to the southwestern United States and others originate in the Caribbean and Central America.  

The large, fragrant flowers bloom from mid-summer until frost. The plants tend to sprawl on the ground and can form a mound of 3-feet wide or more.

The plant is moth-pollinated. Datura wrightii is the host plant for the larvae of the Hawk moth (Sphingidae). It is a good choice for a nighttime or moon gardens.

It is often confused with Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia sp.). However, Brugmansia blooms points down, while Datura’s flowers face up or out. Also, Brugmansia’s fruit is smooth, while the Datura fruit or seed capsule is prickly. They are both members of the nightshade family and are considered poisonous in all parts, so are essentially deer-resistant, but should also be kept away from small children and pets—and handled with care.

The common name jimsonweed refers to Datura stramonium also known as Mad Apple or Thorn Apple amongst many other common names. It was used by indigenous peoples of the Americas as a hallucinogen and intoxicant.

Datura grows best in full sun and in well-draining soils. It is quite drought-tolerant once established. Apply an all-purpose fertilizer regularly to encourage continual blooming.

 To propagate Datura, sow the seeds indoors in February or directly outdoors after the last frost of spring. Collect the seed capsules before they open up, if you do not wish it to self-sow in future years.

 Datura: You Can Grow That!

 The video was produced by Washington Gardener Magazine.

Audio, Photos, and Text by Kathy Jentz

Video and Editing by Koree Perry

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