Datura, commonly known as Devil’s Trumpet or Moonflower, is an herbaceous plant known for its large, striking, trumpet-shaped flowers that often release a sweet fragrance, particularly in the evening. This ornamental species is distinct from its close relative, Brugmansia (Angel’s Trumpet), as Datura flowers grow upward or outward rather than hanging down. Successfully growing this plant requires careful attention to its specific needs from the moment of planting through its seasonal maintenance.
Propagation and Initial Planting
Starting Datura from seed is a straightforward method for propagation. To encourage successful germination, gently nick the hard seed coat with a nail clipper or sandpaper, a process known as scarification. Following this, soak the seeds in tepid water for a full 24 hours to further soften the outer layer.
Seeds can be started indoors 8 to 12 weeks before your area’s last expected frost date. Sow the prepared seeds about a quarter-inch deep in a sterile seed-starting mix, ensuring the temperature remains consistently warm, ideally between 70°F and 80°F. Once the threat of frost has completely passed, indoor-started seedlings must undergo a hardening-off period.
This transition involves gradually acclimating the young plants to outdoor conditions over a one- to two-week span, slowly increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and wind. When transplanting to their final location, select a site that allows for the plant’s mature size, spacing them about three feet apart. If container gardening, opt for a large pot, such as a 14-inch or five-gallon size, to accommodate their extensive root system.
Essential Environmental Conditions
Datura requires a location that provides full sun exposure, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily, for the most abundant and robust flowering. While the plant can tolerate partial shade, insufficient light will result in leggier growth and a reduction in flower production. The soil must be rich in organic matter and exceptionally well-draining to prevent root rot.
The plant thrives best in a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging between 6.0 and 7.5. Datura is a heavy feeder and a thirsty plant during the active growing season. In-ground plants should receive a deep watering about once a week, allowing the top layer of soil to dry slightly before the next application.
Container-grown Datura will demand significantly more frequent watering due to the soil drying out faster in pots. These plants may need water two to three times a week, or even daily during periods of intense heat. Wilting is a clear sign the plant is thirsty, but avoid letting the soil become saturated or waterlogged, which can be detrimental to root health.
Ongoing Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Datura plants require consistent feeding to support their large size and continuous flowering throughout the season. Start with a balanced or slightly nitrogen-heavy fertilizer in the early spring to promote initial vegetative growth. Once the plant is established and beginning to set buds, switch to a liquid fertilizer formula higher in phosphorus and potassium to maximize bloom production.
For container plants, apply a liquid fertilizer every one to two weeks during the growing months to replenish nutrients quickly depleted from the limited soil volume. To encourage a bushier, more compact shape, young seedlings can be pinched back after they develop their second or fourth set of true leaves. Deadheading, which involves removing the spent flowers, is recommended to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production and instead redirect it toward creating new blooms.
Common pests include spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids, which tend to cluster on the undersides of leaves and new growth. A strong jet of water can dislodge minor infestations, while more persistent issues can be managed with organic controls. Apply insecticidal soap or Neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage of the foliage, especially the lower leaf surfaces.
In non-tropical climates, Datura is typically grown as an annual, but container plants can be successfully overwintered. Before the first hard frost, prune the plant back significantly and move it to a cool, dark location, such as a basement or garage, where the temperature remains above freezing, ideally between 50°F and 60°F. During this dormant period, reduce watering to only once a month, providing just enough moisture to prevent the root ball from completely drying out.
Safety and Handling Precautions
All parts of the Datura plant, including the roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds, contain dangerous levels of highly toxic tropane alkaloids. These compounds, primarily atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, are potent anticholinergic substances. Ingestion of any part of the plant can induce a severe condition known as anticholinergic toxidrome.
Symptoms of poisoning may include a rapid heartbeat, hyperthermia, extreme confusion, agitated delirium, and visual hallucinations. Due to the high risk of severe illness or death, it is imperative to keep Datura away from children and pets. Always wear protective gardening gloves when handling the plant, particularly during pruning or transplanting, to prevent plant sap from contacting your skin or eyes.
The concentration of toxins can vary widely between individual plants and different parts of the plant. If accidental ingestion occurs, or if symptoms of poisoning are observed, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. This plant is strictly for ornamental use, and no part should ever be consumed.