The Devil’s Trumpet Tree, primarily Datura metel, is a striking ornamental plant known for its dramatic blossoms. Originating from various parts of the world, it has gained popularity in gardens across tropical and temperate regions. Its common names, such as Horn of Plenty or Thornapple, hint at its distinctive appearance and visual impact.
Characteristics and Identification
The Devil’s Trumpet Tree grows as a bushy, sprawling shrub, often reaching heights of 3 to 5 feet. Its foliage consists of ovate, dark green leaves up to 8 inches long, sometimes with wavy or serrated edges.
The most distinguishing feature of Datura metel is its trumpet-shaped, upward-facing flowers. These blooms, which can be single or double, emerge from cigar-shaped buds and unfurl in the evening, releasing a sweet fragrance strong at night. They come in white, yellow, lilac, and purple, with individual flowers often lasting only a single night. Following the blooms, the plant produces spiky fruit capsules that split open to release numerous brownish-yellow seeds.
It is important to differentiate Datura from Brugmansia, often called “Angel’s Trumpet.” While both share trumpet-shaped flowers, a key distinction lies in their orientation: Datura flowers point upwards, whereas Brugmansia flowers typically hang downwards. Datura species also produce spiny seed pods, unlike the smooth fruit of Brugmansia.
Growing and Care
Cultivating the Devil’s Trumpet Tree requires attention to environmental factors for vigorous growth and abundant blooms. The plant thrives in full sun, though in very hot climates, it can benefit from partial shade to prevent stress. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily supports optimal flowering.
Well-draining soil is crucial for this plant, which prefers a rich, loamy consistency with good humus content. A soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral or mildly alkaline is suitable. Adequate drainage prevents root rot.
Consistent watering is necessary, especially during the active growing season. The soil should be kept moist but allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent oversaturation. During warmer months, watering frequency may increase to two or three times per week, particularly for container-grown plants. Watering in the morning is recommended to minimize fungal issues.
Datura metel prefers moderate to warm temperatures and is sensitive to frost. In regions prone to freezing, it is often grown as an annual. For overwintering, container-grown plants can be brought indoors to a cool, dimly lit area with temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C), with reduced watering.
As a heavy feeder, the Devil’s Trumpet Tree benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or a flowering fertilizer every 2 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning helps shape the plant, control its size, and encourage more blooms. It can be done in late winter or early spring, or after the first flush of flowers, by removing dead or damaged branches. This promotes bushier growth and maintains the plant’s structure.
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies; fungal spots can occur, especially in overly wet conditions. Monitoring the plant for signs of infestation or disease allows for timely intervention. Ensuring good air circulation and proper watering practices can help mitigate many common issues.
Propagation
The Devil’s Trumpet Tree can be propagated from both seeds and stem cuttings. Seeds can be collected from mature, spiky fruit pods once they dry and split open.
Before sowing, soaking seeds overnight in tepid water can aid germination. Sow seeds in a well-draining sterile starter mix, about 1/4 inch deep, keeping them consistently moist but not waterlogged. An ideal germination temperature is 70-80°F (21-27°C), with seedlings emerging within 2 to 4 weeks. For outdoor sowing, wait until after all danger of frost has passed, or sow indoors 8-10 weeks prior to the last expected frost. Young seedlings benefit from a hardening-off period before transplanting outdoors.
Propagation from stem cuttings offers another viable option. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from healthy, non-flowering stems, several inches long with a few leaves at the top.
Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can enhance success rates. Place cuttings in a moist, well-draining rooting medium (e.g., peat and perlite) and keep them in a warm, humid environment. Providing bottom heat and covering the cuttings with a plastic dome can create the necessary conditions for successful root development, which occurs within several weeks.
Toxicity and Safety Precautions
All parts of the Devil’s Trumpet Tree, including its leaves, flowers, and seeds, are highly toxic if ingested. This plant contains potent tropane alkaloids that can have severe effects on the human and animal nervous systems. The concentration of these alkaloids can vary depending on the plant’s age and growing conditions.
Ingestion of even small amounts can lead to a range of poisoning symptoms, including dilated pupils, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, fever, and hallucinations. More severe reactions may involve delirium, convulsions, coma, and in some cases, death. This plant poses a significant danger, particularly to young children and pets.
When handling the Devil’s Trumpet Tree, take clear safety measures. Always wear gloves, especially when pruning, repotting, or collecting seeds, to prevent skin irritation or accidental absorption. After any contact, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water. Avoid touching your face or eyes before washing your hands.
Ensure the plant is inaccessible to children and pets, perhaps by planting it in a securely fenced area or growing it in containers placed out of reach. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. Contact a poison control center or seek medical help without delay. The Devil’s Trumpet Tree is strictly for ornamental purposes.