Devil's Trumpet Care

In the spring and summer, aim to water it 2–3 times a week, especially if the weather is warm. For fall and winter, ease back to once a week or whenever the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry.

Lightly prune the plant in the spring to shape it and remove any unhealthy or diseased stems. Be cautious; this plant is toxic, so wear gloves. Pruning helps it maintain a neat look and encourages new growth.

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring through early fall). Look for something with a 10-10-10 N-P-K ratio.

The plant needs lots of sunlight to flourish—ideally, 6–8 hours of direct light daily. In hotter regions, some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch, but too little sun will reduce flowering.

It prefers rich, well-draining soil that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged. A garden soil mix with added organic matter (like compost) is ideal. As for soil pH, aim for 6.5 and 7.5.

Propagation is best done through stem cuttings in early spring. Cut a healthy stem around 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) long, remove the lower leaves, and then place it in water or a rooting hormone mix. Keep it in indirect sunlight, and in about 2–3 weeks, roots should appear.

Devil's Trumpet thrives best in USDA zones 9–11, preferring warm temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C) during the growing season. It can tolerate short dips to 50°F (10°C), but anything lower can be too cold, so protect it with frost covers if needed.

If you plan to grow this plant in a pot, go for a large container—something at least 15 gallons (57 liters) in capacity to give those roots room to spread. Ceramic or glazed clay pots are a good choice since they’re heavy enough to keep it stable and help retain moisture.

In Hindu tradition, Datura metel is associated with the god Shiva. It’s often offered to him in ceremonies, symbolizing his legendary act of drinking poison to protect the world, which left him with a blue throat.