Datura which is also known as trumpet
flower is actually a native South American plant. The plant is known for its
bold flowers and rapid growth. Datura plant is an herbaceous perennial or
annual plant with a deadly reputation as an ingredient in poisons and love
potions. Growing datura in pots is very easy. Continue reading to learn more
about Datura plant.
Trumpet flower or Datura is often
confused with Brugmansia. The Brugmansia plant can become a massive woody tree
but Datura plant is smaller and less woody with upright as opposed to drooping
flowers. The Datura plant has a bad rap due to a history that links it to such
dangerous plants as nightshade and mandrake. Let’s set that aside and look at
its attributes. The Datura plants grow quickly and may get up to about four
feet tall. The blooms are actually fragrant and particularly so at night. Most
flowers are white but they may also be purple, yellow, lavender and red. The stems
are really soft, but erect, and they have a grayish green tinge. The leaves are
lobed and lightly furred. The flowers are the standout at several inches (9
cm.) in width. The Datura plants are generally an annual but self seeds
vigorously and the seedlings grow at a furious rate to adult plants in one
season. This self-seeding behavior ensures Datura plant growing year after
year.
How to Grow Datura from Seed
The Datura plants are extremely easy
to grow from seed. The Datura plants need full sun and rich fertile earth that
drains well. Sow the datura seeds directly outside into a prepared bed in fall
in warmer climates and in early spring after all danger of frost has passed in
cooler climates. You can grow datura plants inside or outside in a pot, or
simply spread the datura seeds with a light coat of sand outside in a sunny
location. Actually the little plants will exceed your expectations with their
speedy growth and low maintenance.
Datura Plant Care
Trumpet flower or Datura need full sun,
fertile soil and regular watering. The plants get droopy and cranky if they do
not get adequate moisture. During winter the plant can sustain themselves in
most climates with whatever moisture naturally occurs. Datura plant care
specifies that the potted plants actually need special care and annual
repotting. Trumpet flower or Datura may lose leaves in winter if left outside
in milder climates, but spring back in warmer temperatures. Trumpet flower growing
in colder zones will require you to move the plant indoors or just let it
reseed and start new plants. You can fertilize in spring with a light flowering
plant food that is high in nitrogen and then follow with a formula higher in
phosphorus to promote flowering. Also cut back errant stems, but otherwise you
don’t need to prune this plant. Staking may be necessary when the Trumpet
flower or Datura grows too quickly and has slender stems.
Post a Comment