Datura is a genus of flowering plants found globally, often growing in disturbed soils, roadsides, and open fields. Identification relies on its unique physical attributes. This article details its general structure, distinctive flowers and fruit, and key differences from similar plants.
General Plant Structure
Datura plants are bushy and sprawling, often reaching heights between two to five feet, though some species can grow taller, up to 6 feet (1.8 meters). Their stems are generally thick, hollow, and may range in color from green to purplish, sometimes displaying a slightly hairy texture. The branching pattern often appears somewhat irregular, contributing to its bushy appearance.
Datura leaves are large, measuring four to ten inches (10-20 cm) long and two to seven inches (5-18 cm) wide. They are typically ovate or egg-shaped, with edges that can be smooth, wavy, or irregularly toothed. The foliage is usually dark green on the upper surface and lighter green underneath, often feeling soft or slightly hairy. These leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, creating a dense canopy.
Distinctive Flowers and Fruit
Datura’s trumpet-shaped flowers are striking and large, often six to eight inches (15-20 cm) long. These showy blooms typically point upwards or outwards from the plant. Their color varies by species, commonly appearing in shades of white, cream, yellow, or purple. The flowers often open in the evening and release a strong, sweet fragrance, attracting night-flying pollinators.
After flowering, the plant produces distinctive fruit. This fruit is a round or oval capsule, typically one to four inches (3-10 cm) in diameter, covered in numerous sharp spines in most species. The spiny casing dries and splits open into four valves when mature, releasing many flattened, kidney-shaped seeds.
Identifying It From Other Plants
Distinguishing Datura from other plants, particularly Brugmansia (angel’s trumpets), is important due to their visual similarities. A key difference is flower orientation: Datura flowers point upwards or outwards, while Brugmansia flowers hang downwards in a pendulous fashion. Additionally, Brugmansia fruit is typically smooth and not dehiscent (does not split open), lacking the spiny, globular appearance of Datura fruit.
Other plants, such as certain nightshades, might be confused with Datura, but careful observation reveals clear distinctions. Nightshade plants generally have much smaller flowers and berries, which are soft and fleshy, unlike Datura’s large, spiny capsules. Paying close attention to the specific characteristics of the flowers, their orientation, and the fruit structure provides reliable cues for accurate identification.