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Genus Datura (Angels' trumpets)

Datura Datura metel Photo/Illustration: Amy Ziffer
Common Name: Angels' trumpets Synonyms: Brugmansia
The genus Datura is comprised of five species of evergreen shrubs and trees from the southern U.S. to South America, occuring in scrub and along streams. Their large, pendent, tubular or trumpet-shaped flowers are usually fragrant and lend a tropical air to the garden from late spring to autumn. They are also good in a greenhouse where the containers can be moved outside and placed in a border for the summer.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Large, usually scented, trumpet-shaped flowers. All parts are highly toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and children.
 Care: Outdoors, grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Indoors, these plants need full light and a soil-based potting mix. Water freely and fertilize monthly during the growning season. In winter, keep just moist.
 Propagation: Sow seed at 61°F in spring. Root semi-ripe cuttings in summer using bottom heat.
 Problems: Spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs can be problems in the greenhouse.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Datura

Datura metel Datura metel
(Downy thorn apple, Devil's trumpet, Horn of plenty) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Datura metel grows 3 to 4 feet tall with large dark green leaves that have a bad smell. However, the large trumpet-shaped flowers have a sweet fragrance that spreads throughout the garden in the morning and evening. Flowers may be single or double and range from white and yellow to pink and purple.