In terms of flower size and color, Datura is unmatched. Probably no other houseplant is so popular. Bielunie belong to the nightshade family. Until recently, they were grouped under one genus called Datura. Annual species with a shrub form and perennial trees belonged to it. Both forms have similar flowers but differently placed on the stem. In the woody saplings, the flowers are directed upwards like goblets, and in the woody saplings they fall downwards like bells. Differences can also be found in the structure of the fruit; in the former they are usually covered with spines, in the latter - smooth.The common feature of both forms is, unfortunately, that every part of them is poisonous.
Recently, on the basis of research conducted in the USA, it was decided to recreate (as in 1805) a separate species called brugmansja from perennial woody forms. This species is called the angel trumpets because of the beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that reach a length of 15 to 45 cm. Brugmansja has 5 species. Under natural conditions, they are always green trees or shrubs that grow in thickets and on the banks of streams, from the southern states of North America to South America. The flowering period is from June to October, with the most fragrant flowers appearing in August.
Where to grow angel trumpets?The best development conditions for the cultivation of Datura are semi-shaded and sheltered places, sunny in the morning and evening hours. In the midday hours, the plants should not be in full sun.On hot days, they can be sprinkled from time to time. We also have a large selection of plants for shaded sites (balconies and terraces), primarily among the varieties of the species Brugmansia sanguinea and Brugmansia vulcanicola.
Growing DaturaA special substrate for potted plants is necessary for the proper development of this species. Datura plants need a lot of water, but we only reach for the watering can when the ground is almost dry. Watering is advisable in moderation, therefore, after each irrigation, drain the water that flows into the base. In addition to water, datura plants do not need fertilizer, so when planting or transplanting, they need to be supplemented with long-acting fertilizer, and then fed weekly with fertilizer to support flowering. Plants must not be moved out of the winter quarters too early, preferably only in mid-May, when there is no longer any risk of frost. In order for the datura plants to undergo the acclimatization stage as gently as possible, it is best to choose a cloudy day for moving.After the season, we move them back to winter accommodation. We are shutting down power six weeks before the move. The quarters should maintain the temperature in the range of 5-10 ° C, it can also be shaded. Then in the fall, we strongly prune the shoots and limit watering. From March, we move the plants to a brighter place and slightly increase the dose of water. Datura can also be hibernated at home - in an unheated but bright room or in a staircase where the temperature is not higher than 10 ° C. Brugmansia sanguinea blooms in winter and should have a clear position. In this case, we still feed the plants with smaller doses of fertilizer. Just like in summer, we have to make sure that the soil in the pot does not dry out.
Datura care treatmentsIn the peak period of summer, when Datura is blooming, you should regularly check that the plants are not attacked by pests or diseases. Remove disturbing yellow leaves and seeds by cutting them off at a safe distance from the main shoot.Thanks to this, we will avoid cuts, and thus - infection. Removing the fruit sooner means that the plants put more energy into growth and to create new flowers. In summer, datura plants may lose their leaves, which is often a symptom of starvation of the plant. It is enough to increase the dose of fertilizer or use it more often. If the leaves turn yellow intermittently, don't worry.
