How to grow Datura from Seed
Growing Datura from seed (or anything for that matter) may seem daunting, but let me reassure you with a couple of tips to help increase your germination rate and end up with big beautiful Devil’s Trumpets. This guide can be applied to all Datura species. From my extensive experience growing these toxic beauties, they all respond nearly the same when germinating. I will release a specific growing guide for each Datura, as mature plants have different temperaments.
Quick Facts:
Genus Size: About 9–12 recognized species (taxonomy debated)
Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
Native Range: Widespread in warm and temperate regions of the Americas, with some species naturalized worldwide
Habitats: Open fields, disturbed soils, roadsides, and arid landscapes
Growth Habit: Annuals or short-lived perennials with fast growth and shrubby form
Flowers: Large, trumpet-shaped, often fragrant at night; typically white, purple, or yellow
Fruit: Spiny seed pods (“thorn apples”) containing numerous seeds
Pollination: Primarily by moths, bees, and occasionally bats or hummingbirds
Cultural/Ethnobotanical Significance: Long history of use in ritual, medicine, and shamanic practices across Indigenous cultures of the Americas and Asia
Notable Relatives: Close relatives include Brugmansia (angel’s trumpets), though Brugmansia is woody and tree-like while Datura remains herbaceous
Germination:
To increase germination rate, I always soak Datura seeds in water for 12-24 hours. This helps to soften the outer shell of the seed and aid in development of the embryo. The seeds will germinate in 1-4 weeks typically depending on freshness.
When to sow:
I have found that Datura germinate best in the springtime when the temperatures outside start to warm. With that being said, I have had much success germinating Datura all throughout the year in the greenhouse. As long as the seeds are given some level of warmth with sowing they will be more likely to germinate whether inside or outside.
Light requirements:
Seeds and seedlings require bright indirect sunlight or bright grow-lights. Mature plants require 6-8 hours of full sun. Datura will continue to grow in light deprived, or shady environments but it will stretch and become leggy, producing fewer flowers as a result.
Soil Requirements:
Datura seeds should be sown in well draining and rich soil. The soil composition should include perlite to help the seeds wick moisture without being too soggy. The seeds can be sown in open trays, or into individual small pots. I find it best to just layer the seeds in a small tray and transplant the seedlings.
Water requirements:
When the seeds are sown, the soil should be saturated fully. As they start to grow, make sure the soil has constant moisture; do not let the soil fully dry out. Seedlings and mature plants are quite thirsty, but are also drought tolerant. They will start to droop and let you know when it's been too long without water.
Propagation:
Datura will freely self-pollinate and self-seed if you let them. They will develop large spiky pods that upon maturity will burst, spreading the seeds into nearby pots or soil. Place bags around the seeds to collect them before they spread everywhere. Datura also happily grows from cuttings. In my greenhouse I also place cuttings directly into soil with rooting hormone. Growing from seed is arguably easiest though with how frequently Datura flowers and fruits.
Overwintering:
Overwintering Datura is simple and easy! If you continue to provide supplemental light during the cold season your Datura will happily grow in your care. They would benefit from a heating mat but it is not necessary.
Safety:
Toxicity: All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets.
Use: Sold for ornamental and horticultural use only.
Shipping / Legal: For regulated species, shipping is restricted in certain states. Please check local laws before purchase.
Liability: Exotic Botanist is not responsible for misuse of plants.
