Although members of the Datura genus are half hardy perennials they are normally grown in the garden as half hardy annuals.
They flower from the end of summer until autumn with trumpet shaped white flowers that are about 20cm long; the foliage is bluey; this makes Datura a very attractive plant.
Some of the common names for Datura include Trumpet flower, Floripondio, Jimsonweed, Angel's trumpet and Horn of plenty.
Jimsonweed was traditionally used to treat epilepsy and is closely associated with witchcraft (it is a member of the nightshade family).
The seeds of Datura should be sown at a depth of 3 mm (1/10th inch) in a sunny area of the garden that has a moist soil.
They should be sown outdoors after the last frost of spring.
It is probably best to grow Trumpet flowers and other Datura members as seedlings indoors first. The growing process should be started about 10 weeks before they are due to be planted outside in the middle of spring.
Trumpet flowers take about 3 to 6 weeks to germinate at a temperature of about 18 to 20 degrees centigrade.
Once established Trumpet flower should be transplanted at a spacing of about 8 to 9 cm (~3.5 inches).
Datura wrightii by Pizzodisevo.
If you are growing Datura as a perennial then it is important to keep the soil moist in water.
The plants should make plenty of seeds so just leave in situ, and remove old plants. Or you may prefer to take cuttings from the side shoots of trumpet flowers.
The Datura genus is made up of around nine species.
Yes, some species of Datura, with their large, fragrant flowers, can be attractive additions to a garden. However, they are toxic and should be handled carefully.
The most commonly grown Datura species is Datura stramonium (Jimsonweed).
Yes, many species of Datura, such as Datura stramonium, have fragrant flowers, particularly in the evening.
Datura species prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil. They can tolerate some dry conditions.
Some species of Datura, including Datura stramonium, are considered invasive in many US states due to their rapid growth and spread.
Remove Datura plants by uprooting them, ensuring you remove all seeds and roots. Wear gloves as these plants are toxic.
The Datura genus is a group of flowering plants native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. They are known for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers that open at night, emitting a sweet, intoxicating fragrance, and for their round, spiky seed pods.
Datura plants prefer a sunny location and well-drained soil. They can tolerate some drought but perform best with regular watering. Plant seeds in the spring after the last frost. Note that all parts of Datura are toxic if ingested, and should be grown with caution, especially around children and pets.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Datura plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Flowering Tobacco and Physalis plants.