Toloache, Thorn Apple
datura inoxia
Also known as: ["Angel's Trumpet","Moonflower"]
Overview
A highly toxic annual or short-lived perennial herbaceous plant with large, trumpet-shaped flowers and spiny seed pods.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Datura |
| Botanical Name: | Datura inoxia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or to control size; light pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that dries out between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers hot summers; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering for better blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds (though germination can be challenging).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if outdoors; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicDatura inoxia poses a significant toxic risk to cats. The tropane alkaloids in the plant interfere with the cholinergic system, causing severe neurological and physiological effects. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and even small amounts can lead to serious poisoning, including hallucinations, seizures, and respiratory failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDatura inoxia is highly toxic to dogs due to its tropane alkaloid content. Ingestion can cause severe anticholinergic poisoning, leading to neurological and physiological disturbances. The alkaloids disrupt normal neurotransmitter function, resulting in symptoms ranging from mild gastrointestinal upset to life-threatening central nervous system depression.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicDatura inoxia contains potent tropane alkaloids, primarily atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine, which act as anticholinergics. These compounds block acetylcholine receptors, leading to severe disruption of the nervous system, including delirium, hallucinations, and potentially fatal central nervous system depression. The toxic effects are systemic and can affect multiple organ systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Datura inoxia safe to grow around pets?
A: No, Datura inoxia is highly toxic to dogs and cats and should not be grown in households with pets.
Q: What are the typical uses of Datura inoxia?
A: Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine and rituals, but it is not recommended for home use due to its toxicity.
Q: How should Datura inoxia be cared for?
A: It requires full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; overwatering can lead to root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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