Datura

Description

Datura, also known as Devil’s trumpet, is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Solanaceae. It comprises of around 9-12 species of annual and perennial herbs, shrubs, and trees, native to the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The plants are known for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of white, yellow, pink, and purple.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Datura plants can grow up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, depending on the species. They have large, ovate leaves that can grow up to 8 inches long and 6 inches wide. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can grow up to 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. They bloom in the summer and fall and come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. The fruit of the plant is a spiny capsule that contains numerous seeds.

Care Guide

Water: Datura plants prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil: Datura plants prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

Sunlight: Datura plants prefer full sun to partial shade.

Hardiness Zones: Datura plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder zones, they can be grown as annuals or brought indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Datura plants are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy with proper watering and fertilization. If pests or diseases do occur, treat the plant with an insecticide or fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Habitat

Datura plants are native to the Americas, Africa, and Asia. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, forests, and grasslands. In their native range, some species are used for medicinal or ceremonial purposes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Datura plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Datura plants can be grown indoors in a sunny location.

Q: Are Datura plants toxic?

A: Yes, all parts of the Datura plant are toxic and can cause hallucinations, delirium, and even death if ingested.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Datura plant?

A: Fertilize your Datura plant once a month during the growing season.

Q: What hardiness zones are Datura plants suitable for?

A: Datura plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Related Plants

• Brugmansia
• Nicotiana
• Petunia
• Solanum

References

• “Datura.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b749.
• “Datura.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 September 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13133/Datura/Details.
• “Datura.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 23 September 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DATUR.