Datura metel

Angel's Trumpet is a short-lived, shrub-like tender herbaceous perennial, often grown as an annual, that prefers warm temperatures. In its native Texas, it is often found in sunny locations in waste places and river sands. The large flowers are shaped like trumpets (hence the common name), are slow to develop and bloom, and have an exotic fragrance; however, the bruised leaves also give off an odor that some consider unpleasant. Each flower unravels in the evening from an unusual cigar-shaped flower bud, displaying a fragrant trumpet-shaped bloom that only lasts until noon the following day. Flowers will typically bloom intermittently from mid-summer to frost. These plants belong to the nightshade family and all parts are extremely toxic.

Angel's Trumpet tolerates average soil, but prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sun with regular moisture. It will tolerate alkaline soil, but does not do well in full shade. It does tolerate sandy soil and is winter hardy to USDA Zone 9-10. Most plantings of Angel's Trumpet are nursery plants; however, you can start seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost and set plants out after that date. Plants tend to sprawl, and should be spaced about 3 feet apart or staked and supported. Deadheading flowers is not necessary and self-seeding may occur. You can also harvest seed for planting in the following spring. Container plants can be cut back and overwintered indoors in a sunny window.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: Extremely susceptible to the viruses that afflict the potato family (Solanaceae). Do not grow near potatoes or tomatoes.