General characteristics of Datura metel
Datura metal, popularly known as devil's trumpet, is a herbaceous plant of the family Solanaceae which stands out for its ornamental beauty as for your toxicity. Native to tropical and subtropical regions of America, it has spread widely to other parts of the world, being appreciated in gardening for its large trumpet-shaped flowers, which are usually white, violet or yellow, and give off a sweet aroma especially at night.
It is a robust plant, with erect and branched stems, which can reach up to Meters 1,5 under optimal conditions. It has large, green, lanceolate, and serrated leaves, with a pubescent underside that gives the foliage a particular texture. Its flowers can measure up to 20 cm long, are erect and ornamental, opening during the night and remaining until dawn.
Toxicity and traditional uses
All parts of Datura metal are highly poisonous for humans and animals, so it should be handled with extreme caution caution and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Its tropane alkaloids (such as atropine and scopolamine) have been used in traditional medicine and ancestral rituals, although their unsupervised use is extremely dangerous. To learn more about plants with similar toxins, you can visit Poisonous plants in Spain.
Historically, different cultures have taken advantage of the plant's psychoactive and medicinal properties, but today it is recommended not to use it for therapeutic purposes outside of strict controls, considering the serious risks involved in its ingestion or improper handling.
Growing conditions and ideal location
La Datura metal thrives in hot climates and requires protection against the frosts and intense cold. It prefers locations at full sun, although in very hot areas you may appreciate the semi-shadowIt is essential to protect the plant from drafts and very low temperatures, as these can severely damage it. In temperate environments, it can grow as an annual plant, while in warmer regions it can remain perennialIf you would like to learn more about their care, visit Growing and caring for the angel trumpet.
Its development is rapid, so it needs enough space both in the garden and in large pots. Due to its toxicity and ability to self-sow, it is recommended to plant it as an isolated specimen and control its spread.
Soil, substrate and fertilization
For optimal growth, the Datura metal requires soils rich in organic matter, slightly clayey and well drainedThe substrate should always be kept fresh, avoiding waterlogging that can damage the roots, but it should not dry out completely except during periods of vegetative rest. It is also advisable to inquire about plants with thorns that can complement your garden, such as the complete guide to plants with thorns.
During the growing and flowering season, it is advisable fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks, prioritizing those rich in nitrogen to stimulate both foliage and production showy flowers.
Irrigation and specific care
La devil's trumpet It needs regular watering to ensure constant humidity in the substrate, but always avoiding excess of waterIn warmer months, watering can be more abundant, decreasing its frequency during cooler or slower growth periods. It is recommended to water in the morning to avoid nighttime moisture buildup and the resulting risk of fungus.
La pruning It is advisable to prune in late winter or autumn, removing dry or weak branches to encourage vigorous regrowth the following season. In addition, formative pruning helps maintain the plant's proper structure and control its size.
Multiplication and transplantation
Datura metal can be simply multiplied by seeds, which germinate easily once ripe, or through cuttings taken from spring to autumn, as long as a stable temperature of between 16 and 18ºC is maintained. Although it can be transplanted, this procedure must be carried out with delicacy since the plant doesn't tolerate sudden changes in substrate or location well. For more information on its reproduction, see .
Plagues and diseases
It is a species resistant common garden pests and diseases. However, in conditions of high humidity and poor ventilation, it could present fungal problems. Regular monitoring, removal of affected parts, and prevention with natural treatments will be sufficient to maintain the health of the specimen.
Additional precautions and ornamental value
In addition to its ornamental value, the Datura metal should be grown with caution, as its toxicity can pose a danger to people and pets if accidentally ingested. It is essential to use gloves when handling the plant and avoid contact with mucous membranes or open wounds.
For ideas on ornamental plants that match the Mexican flower and other exotic styles, consider including species that provide a striking and elegant touch during summer and fall, such as Datura.
