Devil’s Trumpet (Datura metel)

Devil’s Trumpet Plant, also commonly known as angel’s trumpet, jimson weed, or thornapple, and botanically referred to as Datura, is a captivating yet controversial plant. Its large, trumpet-shaped flowers and unique foliage make it a visually striking addition to any garden, but it’s crucial to understand its potent properties.

Gardencenterpoint.com provides resources to help gardeners navigate the complexities of plants like the Datura species, providing a solution that ensures safety, and informed decisions. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about identification, toxicity, and growing the Devil’s Flower.

Devil’s Trumpet Plant Identification and Characteristics

The Devil’s Trumpet encompasses several species within the Datura genus, all belonging to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). While visually similar to Brugmansia (often also called Angel’s Trumpet), there are key differences. Brugmansia species are woody trees or shrubs with pendulous (hanging) flowers, while Datura species are typically herbaceous (non-woody) with erect (upright) flowers.

Common Names	Devil’s Trumpet, Angel’s Trumpet (use with caution due to confusion with Brugmansia), Jimsonweed, Thornapple, Devil’s Weed, Stinkweed, Moonflower (some species), Locoweed
Botanical Name	Datura spp. (most commonly Datura stramonium, Datura inoxia, Datura metel, Datura wrightii)
Family	Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
Genus	Datura
Species	Varies (see Botanical Name)
Origin	Varies by species; North and South America, Asia, Africa
Life Cycle	Annual or short-lived perennial (depending on climate)
Plant Type	Herbaceous
Hardiness Zones	Typically zones 5-7 (annual), 8-10 (perennial)
Sunlight	Full Sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight); some afternoon shade in very hot climates
Maintenance	Low to Moderate (primarily due to safety precautions, not plant care difficulty)
Water	Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Drainage	Well-Drained (essential)
Spacing	2-3 feet (0.6 – 0.9 meters) apart
Flowering Period	Mid-summer to first frost
Height	2-5 feet (0.6 – 1.5 meters) typical; up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in ideal conditions
Growth Rate	Moderate to Fast
Flower Color	White, yellow, pink, purple, red (varies by species and cultivar)
Stem Color	Green, often with purplish tinges
Leaf Color	Green, can range from a lighter to darker shade, and some varieties show a blue-green hue
Flower Benefit	Large, showy, fragrant (especially at night)
Garden Style	Not recommended for most gardens due to toxicity. Can be considered in specialized botanical collections or research settings with strict safety protocols.
Uses	Limited due to toxicity. Primarily of interest for
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
Propagation	Seed, cuttings
Foliage	Deciduous
Toxicity	Highly toxic in all parts

Key Identification Features:

Feature	Description
Leaves	Large, alternate, oval to triangular, often with toothed or lobed edges. The leaves can have a slightly unpleasant odor when crushed.
Flowers	Large (6-8 inches / 15-20 cm long), trumpet-shaped, and fragrant, especially at night. Colors range from white and yellow to pink, purple, and even red. The flowers typically point upwards.
Fruit	Spiny, capsule-like fruit that splits open when ripe, revealing numerous seeds. The spines can be sharp.
Stems	Sturdy, often branching, and may have a purplish tinge.
Root System	Taproot with fibrous lateral roots.
Common Species	Datura stramonium (Jimsonweed), Datura inoxia (Pricklyburr), Datura metel (Devil’s Trumpet), Datura wrightii (Sacred Datura). There is often confusion and overlap in the common names used for these different species.
Blooming Time	It typically blooms from mid-summer to the first frost. Specific blooming times can vary based on local climate conditions.
Native Range	Varies by species; some are native to North and South America, while others originate in Asia and Africa.

Devil’s Trumpet vs. Angel’s Trumpet

The core difference: Devil’s Trumpet (Datura) has upward-facing flowers, while Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia) has downward-hanging flowers. While the names are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion, they belong to two distinct, though closely related, genera. Both are highly toxic.

Now, let’s delve into a more detailed explanation to fully understand the distinctions and why this matters for gardeners:

The common names “Devil’s Trumpet” and “Angel’s Trumpet” are frequently, and mistakenly, used as synonyms. This creates significant confusion, especially considering both plants contain potent, potentially lethal alkaloids. The accurate distinction lies in their botanical classification and, most visibly, in the orientation of their flowers.

Key Differences Summarized:

Feature	Datura (Devil’s Trumpet)	Brugmansia (Angel’s Trumpet)
Flower Position	Erect (pointing upwards)	Pendulous (hanging downwards)
Growth Habit	Herbaceous (non-woody, often annual)	Woody (shrub or small tree, typically perennial)
Fruit	Spiny capsule (often dehiscent – splits open)	Usually smooth, elongated berry (indehiscent)
Leaves	Often have toothed or lobed edges;	Generally smoother edges
	May have a slightly unpleasant odor when crushed
Seed Dispersal	Seeds are dispersed when the capsule splits open.	Seeds are typically dispersed by animals that consume the fruit.
Lifespan	Generally shorter, often annual.	Generally longer, perennial.

Why This Distinction Matters:

• Accurate Identification is Crucial for Safety: Given the toxicity of both plants, correct identification is paramount. Mistaking one for the other can have serious consequences if any part of the plant is ingested. Knowing the difference allows for informed decisions about planting (or avoiding) these species.
• Cultivation Differences: While their care requirements are similar (full sun, well-drained soil), Brugmansia, being woody, often requires different pruning techniques and may be more suitable for container growing due to its potential size. Understanding the growth habit helps tailor care practices.
• Understanding Plant Origins: The different genera reflect different evolutionary paths and, to some extent, different geographical origins. Datura has species native to both the Americas and the Old World, while Brugmansia is primarily South American in origin.
• Cold Hardiness. Brugmansia species, being generally more tropical, tend to be less cold-hardy than some Datura species.
• Fragrance. While both are fragrant, particularly at night, the specific scent profile can vary subtly between the two. Some describe Brugmansia as having a sweeter, more citrusy fragrance, while some Datura species have a more musky or even slightly unpleasant scent, especially when the leaves are crushed.

Detailed Explanations:

• Flower Orientation: This is the most readily observable and reliable difference. Datura flowers stand upright, like trumpets pointed towards the sky. Brugmansia flowers hang down, resembling bells or lanterns. This difference is consistent across all species within each genus.
• Growth Habit: Datura plants are herbaceous, meaning they have soft, non-woody stems. They often die back to the ground in winter, behaving as annuals in colder climates. Brugmansia plants are woody, developing a persistent trunk and branches. They are shrubs or small trees and are typically perennial in suitable climates.
• Fruit and Seed Dispersal: Datura produces spiny seed capsules that split open (dehisce) when ripe, releasing numerous seeds. Brugmansia typically produces smooth, elongated berries that do not split open (indehiscent). Animals often eat these berries, dispersing the seeds.
• Leaf Morphology: While there is some variation within each genus, Datura leaves often have more pronounced teeth or lobes along the edges, and they may emit a slightly unpleasant odor when crushed. Brugmansia leaves tend to have smoother edges.
• Alkaloid Content. While both genera contain tropane alkaloids, the specific concentrations and ratios of scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine can vary between Datura and Brugmansia, and even between different species within each genus. This variation can influence the specific effects of poisoning, although all species should be considered extremely toxic.

While the terms “Devil’s Trumpet” and “Angel’s Trumpet” are often used loosely, remembering the upward versus downward flower orientation is the easiest and most crucial way to distinguish between Datura and Brugmansia. Both are beautiful but highly toxic plants, and accurate identification is essential for safety. Gardencenterpoint.com stresses the importance of informed gardening, and this distinction is a prime example of why detailed plant knowledge is vital.

Toxicity of Devil’s Trumpet

All parts of the Devil’s Trumpet plant are highly toxic, containing potent tropane alkaloids, primarily scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine. These alkaloids are anticholinergic, meaning they block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for nerve and muscle function. Ingesting even a small amount of any part of the plant can lead to severe poisoning.

Symptoms of Datura Poisoning:

• Mild to Moderate Poisoning: Dry mouth, blurred vision, dilated pupils, difficulty swallowing, rapid heartbeat, flushed skin, urinary retention, confusion, agitation, and hallucinations.
• Severe Poisoning: Seizures, coma, respiratory failure, hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature), and potentially death.

Mechanism of Toxicity:

Tropane alkaloids interfere with the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions. This disruption leads to the characteristic symptoms of poisoning. The specific effects and severity depend on the dose ingested, the individual’s age, weight, and overall health, and the specific Datura species.

Scientific Studies and Case Reports:

Numerous scientific studies and case reports document the dangers of Datura poisoning. A 2010 review in the Journal of Clinical Toxicology summarized numerous cases, highlighting the unpredictable and severe nature of the intoxication. (“Tropane Alkaloid Poisoning: Clinical and Toxicological Aspects,” Journal of Clinical Toxicology, 2010).

A study published in Forensic Science International in 2018 detailed a case of fatal Datura poisoning, emphasizing the importance of rapid medical intervention. (“Fatal Datura stramonium poisoning: identification and quantification of tropane alkaloids in biological specimens by GC-MS,” Forensic Science International, 2018).

First Aid and Medical Treatment:

If you suspect Datura poisoning, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. There is no specific antidote for Datura poisoning, and treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms and preventing further absorption of the toxins. Activated charcoal may be administered to help absorb the toxins in the stomach, and benzodiazepines may be used to control seizures and agitation. Physostigmine, an anticholinesterase inhibitor, can sometimes be used to counteract the anticholinergic effects, but its use is controversial and requires careful medical supervision.

Preventing Poisoning:

• Education: The most crucial step is to educate yourself and others, especially children, about the dangers of this plant.
• Safe Handling: Wear gloves and long sleeves when handling the plant, especially when pruning or removing it. Wash hands thoroughly afterward.
• Secure Disposal: Dispose of plant material carefully, preferably by bagging it and placing it in the trash. Do not compost it, as the alkaloids can persist.
• Supervision: Supervise children and pets closely in areas where Devil’s Trumpet grows.
• Consider Alternatives: If you have young children or pets, consider growing non-toxic alternatives. Gardencenterpoint.com offers a wide selection of beautiful and safe flowering plants.
• Clear Identification: Accurately label any Datura plants in your garden to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Restrict Access: If possible, fence off areas where Devil’s Trumpet is growing to prevent unauthorized access.

Growing Devil’s Trumpet

Despite its toxicity, Devil’s Trumpet can be cultivated safely if proper precautions are taken. This section provides a comprehensive guide to growing this plant, assuming the grower is fully aware of the risks and takes necessary safety measures.

Choosing the Right Location

• Sunlight: Devil’s Trumpet thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) is ideal.
• Space: Allow ample space for the plant to grow, as it can reach several feet in height and width.
• Climate: Consider your USDA Hardiness Zone. Datura is generally grown as an annual in colder climates and a perennial in warmer zones.

Starting from Seed (or Cuttings)

• Seed Starting: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to improve germination. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm (70-80°F / 21-27°C). Germination can take 2-4 weeks.
• Cuttings: Datura can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems in spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist and warm.

Transplanting

• Harden off seedlings or rooted cuttings for a week before transplanting outdoors. Gradually expose them to outdoor conditions.
• Transplant after the last frost when the soil has warmed up.
• Space plants 2-3 feet apart, depending on the expected size of the mature plant.
• Water thoroughly after transplanting.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Datura is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, but consistent moisture promotes better flowering.
• Fertilizing: Feed regularly with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula. Apply fertilizer according to package instructions. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Pruning is generally not required, but you can remove dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant or control its size. Wear gloves and long sleeves when pruning.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
• Pest and Disease Control: Devil’s Trumpet is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites. Inspect plants regularly and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Overwintering

If you live in a climate where Datura is not hardy, you can try to overwinter it indoors. Before the first frost, dig up the plant and pot it in a large container. Cut back the stems to about 6 inches. Place the plant in a cool, bright location (such as a garage or basement) and water sparingly throughout the winter. Move the plant back outdoors after the last frost.

Devil’s Trumpet Uses

Devil’s Trumpet has a long and complex history of use, spanning various cultures and purposes. It’s crucial to reiterate that due to its extreme toxicity, self-medication or recreational use is extremely dangerous and should never be attempted. This section is for informational purposes only and does not endorse any use of the plant.

Historical Uses

• Ritual and Spiritual Practices: Many indigenous cultures in the Americas and Asia have used Datura in religious ceremonies and shamanic rituals. The plant’s hallucinogenic properties were believed to facilitate communication with the spirit world. (Source: Plants of the Gods: Their Sacred, Healing, and Hallucinogenic Powers by Richard Evans Schultes, Albert Hofmann, and Christian Rätsch).
• Traditional Medicine: In some traditional medicine systems, Datura was used in carefully controlled doses to treat various ailments, including asthma, pain, and inflammation. However, the narrow therapeutic window and high risk of toxicity made this practice extremely dangerous.
• Poison: Datura has also been used as a poison, both intentionally and accidentally.

Contemporary Uses (Limited and Highly Controlled)

• Pharmaceutical Research: Scopolamine, one of the tropane alkaloids found in Datura, is used in modern medicine in highly purified and controlled doses. It is used to treat motion sickness, nausea, and vomiting, and as a pre-operative medication to reduce salivation and respiratory secretions. (Source: Goodman & Gilman’s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics).
• Ophthalmology: Atropine, another alkaloid from Datura, is used in ophthalmology to dilate the pupils for eye examinations and to treat certain eye conditions.
• Horticultural Interest: Some gardeners cultivate Devil’s Trumpet for its ornamental value, taking extreme precautions to prevent accidental poisoning.

The Dangers of Recreational Use

Despite its historical use in some cultures, recreational use of Datura is incredibly dangerous and unpredictable. The hallucinations induced by Datura are often described as terrifying and dysphoric, and users can experience severe physical and psychological side effects. There is a high risk of accidental overdose and long-term health consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Is Devil’s Trumpet the same as Angel’s Trumpet?
  • A: While the names are often used interchangeably, they refer to different genera. Datura (Devil’s Trumpet) has upright flowers, while Brugmansia (Angel’s Trumpet) has hanging flowers. Both are toxic.
• Q: Can I touch Devil’s Trumpet without getting poisoned?
  • A: Brief, casual contact with the plant is unlikely to cause poisoning, but it’s best to wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Avoid touching your eyes or mouth after handling the plant.
• Q: How do I get rid of Devil’s Trumpet?
  • A: Wear gloves and protective clothing. Dig up the entire plant, including the roots. Bag the plant material and dispose of it in the trash. Do not compost it. For large infestations, you may need to use a herbicide, but be sure to choose one that is safe for use around other plants and follow the instructions carefully.
• Q: Are there any safe uses for Devil’s Trumpet?
  • A: No. Due to its extreme toxicity, there are no safe uses for Devil’s Trumpet in home remedies or recreational settings. The only safe uses are in highly controlled pharmaceutical applications, as described above.
• Q: Is Devil’s Trumpet Plant legal to grow?
  • A: The legality of cultivating Datura varies by location. Some areas may have restrictions or outright bans on growing it. Check your local regulations before planting.
• Q: What should I do if my pet eats Devil’s Trumpet?
  • A: Contact a veterinarian or animal poison control center immediately. Datura poisoning is a veterinary emergency.
• Q: How can I tell if someone is experiencing Devil’s Trumpet poisoning? A: Look for symptoms such as dilated pupils, dry mouth, confusion, rapid heartbeat, flushed skin, and hallucinations. If you suspect poisoning, seek immediate medical attention.
• Q: Where can I learn more about poisonous plants? A: Gardencenterpoint.com has a variety of resources of poisonous plants, including identification guides and safety tips. You can also consult your local poison control center or a medical professional.