Brugmansia (a.k.a. Angel's Trumpet, Tree Datura)

I saw one of these blooming in a garden the other day. They look pretty cool. The one I saw was not quite as leafy as this one, but its branches still added interest to the garden it was in.

Photo Source: Iowa State University Extension

I may try to get my hands on some cuttings next spring.


Some of them are fairly cold hardy. For instance, 'Frosty Pink' is hardy to zone 7b (5 °F). However, others are not. 'Charles Grimaldi' is only hardy to zone 10b (35 °F). The less hardy ones die back to the ground each year in areas that freeze, and are not as long-lived, according to Floridata. But, since they look cool, they can be worthwhile plants.


Just don't eat or smoke them. They are known to be highly toxic.



Interestingly, hyoscyamine, one of the compounds found in this plant, is used in a prescription drug for certain gastrointestinal problems. There must be some processing involved there. :)



Brugmansia Links:
American Brugmansia and Datura Society, Inc.
Brugmansia Growers International
Brugmansia Cultivar Finder (Dave's Garden)
Dave's Garden Profile (B. candida)
Wikipedia Profile
USDA Plants Profile (B. Candida)
Floridata Profile (B. suaveolens)



Books:
Brugmansia and Datura: Angel's Trumpets and Thorn Apples (I haven't read it, but it looks interesting!)