Devil's Trumpet
datura metel
Also known as: ["Angel's Trumpet","Hindu Datura","Moonflower"]
Overview
A highly toxic, herbaceous plant known for its large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that open at night.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Datura |
| Botanical Name: | Datura metel |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in heat; sensitive to frost; prefers stable conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Avoid overfertilizing to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds (requires stratification for some varieties).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node or bud, remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove spent flowers and diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during hot, dry periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat; bud drop during temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; potential for heat stress in extreme temperatures.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicDatura metel poses a significant toxic risk to cats, owing to its high concentration of tropane alkaloids. These substances disrupt normal neurological and physiological functions, leading to severe anticholinergic poisoning. Cats are highly susceptible to these toxins, which can result in critical health outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDatura metel is highly toxic to dogs due to its tropane alkaloid content. These compounds interfere with the parasympathetic nervous system, causing severe anticholinergic effects. Dogs are particularly sensitive to these toxins, which can lead to life-threatening conditions if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicDatura metel contains potent tropane alkaloids, primarily atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine, which act as anticholinergics. These compounds disrupt the nervous system by blocking acetylcholine receptors, leading to severe physiological and psychological effects. The plant's toxicity is systemic, affecting multiple organ systems, including the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and exocrine glands.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Datura metel safe to grow around pets?
A: No, Datura metel is highly toxic to dogs and cats and should not be grown in households with pets.
Q: Does Datura metel require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Are the flowers of Datura metel edible?
A: No, all parts of the plant are highly toxic and should not be ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
