Jimsonweed - Datura stramonium (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Jimsonweed

Also known as: Moon flower, Angel's trumpet

Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) is a species of nightshade plant native to Central America which is considered an invasive species in more temperate climates. It can be toxic if ingested in significant quantities. It has a distinctive, strong smell. The jimsonweed gets its common name from Jamestown, Virginia, where soldiers ingested the plants exhibited altered mental states afterward.

Scientific classification

Species

Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

60 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Jimsonweed

Distribution of Jimsonweed

Distribution Map

Jimsonweed is native to regions in Central and South America but has been introduced across the continents, from Europe to Asia, and Africa to Oceania. Its presence spans temperate to tropical climates in these areas. In Africa's eastern regions and some parts of the Caribbean, jimsonweed is sometimes thought to be establishing itself in ways that may have an impact on ecosystems, but it generally coexists with local flora outside of its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry waste ground, amongst rubble or the ruins of old buildings

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

The oil extracted from the seeds of jimson weed can be used to make soap, paint, etc.

Garden Use

Jimsonweed is a large annual weed that is prone to settling in the forgotten corners of gardens, vegetable fields, and near open compost or manure heaps. The plant is also toxic. Despite its bad reputation, jimsonweed is not overly invasive or problematic to control. The key is to remove it before it grows its prickly seed pods.

Symbolism

Terror, darkness, power, caution

Interesting Facts

The whole jimsonweed plant is poisonous. However, in Chinese medicine it is used as an anesthetic or as a painkiller. It can also purify air, but it is not good to place indoors because of its hallucinogenic effect.

Name Story

Jimsonweed: In America, the plant is called jimsonweed or on rare occasions Jamestown weed which is derived from the town of Jamestown, Virginia. This was where the English soldiers consumed the plant while attempting to suppress Bacon's Rebellion.

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Toxicity

Jimsonweed is highly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Symptoms include confusion, delirium, coma, and death. Ingesting any part of the plant (leaves, stems, flowers, seeds) can be fatal. Prevent access and seek immediate medical or veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.

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Weed Control

The jimsonweed can be found scattered about the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is considered an invasive weed in over 100 countries such as Kenya, Belgium, France, and the United States. It survives in dry to moist soils in USDA zones 6 to 9. It is considered an invasive crop in Kenya due to its infestation of crops such as soybean, cotton, and maize. Jimsonweed has been used in religious practices but is toxic to both people and livestock. If necessary, the plants can be pulled by hand, tilled, or a herbicide can be used to control its spread.

How to Control It

The best season for removal of jimsonweed is early spring, before the plant has had a chance to flower and disseminate its seeds. Here are a few methods for controlling or removing jimsonweed from your garden:

Hand pulling: Make sure to put on gloves and then manually pull the plants out of the ground. Remember to grab them from the base near the soil to ensure root removal.
Tilling: Use a rototiller or garden hoe to churn the soil, exposing the plant and its roots to natural elements which can help in killing it.
Smothering: Cover the area with a thick layer of newspaper or a tarp, then top with mulch. This will block sunlight and moisture, essential elements for its growth.
Planting cover crops: Plant crops like rye or winter wheat that can compete with jimsonweed for resources, hindering its spread.
Homemade solutions: A mixture of vinegar, salt, and dish soap, sprayed directly on the plant can help kill jimsonweed over time.

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Quickly Identify Jimsonweed

Stem color varies from green to purple, emitting an unpleasant smell.

Leaves display jagged edges in a single, alternating pattern.

Large tubular flowers with five lobes, white or lavender.

Egg-shaped fruit capsule, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) with glossy black seeds.

Fruit texture may be either spiny or smooth, aiding in identification.

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Care Guide for Jimsonweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Jimsonweed is drought-tolerant, thriving with minimal moisture. Water weekly to avoid over-saturation. As an outdoor plant in warmer climates, it benefits from consistent soil moisture during the growing season to support robust flowering cycles.

Propagation: Jimsonweed is propagated by sowing in Spring. Although moderately difficult, vibrant green leaf emergence indicates success. Key factors include ensuring adequate moisture and good seed-to-soil contact for optimal results.

Repotting: Jimsonweed requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive successfully.

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Images of Jimsonweed

Distribution of Jimsonweed

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Jimsonweed

Care Guide for Jimsonweed

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