datur

Datur, typically referring to the genus Datura, is a group of flowering plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It includes several species such as Datura stramonium (jimson weed), Datura innoxia, Datura metel, and Datura wrightii. Common names include jimson weed, thorn apple, and devil's trumpet. Datura plants are usually annuals or short-lived perennials with large, lobed leaves and funnel-shaped flowers that are often white or pale purple and strongly scented at night. In Datura, the flowers generally point upward, whereas Brugmansia (often called angel’s trumpet) has pendulous blossoms. The fruit is a spiny, globe-shaped capsule containing numerous seeds and may eject these seeds when mature.

All parts of Datura contain tropane alkaloids, notably atropine (hyoscyamine), scopolamine, and hyosine, with seeds and fruit tissues often the most potent. These alkaloids have powerful anticholinergic effects and can cause dry mouth, dilated pupils, blurred vision, confusion, delirium, rapid heartbeat, fever, seizures, coma, and even death if ingested in sufficient quantities. Poisoning can occur accidentally, especially in children, or through intentional misuse of seeds.

Uses range from traditional medicine and ceremonial or shamanic practices in some cultures to modern pharmacology, where atropine and related compounds are used in ophthalmology and other medical contexts as antispasmodics and anticholinergics. Datura is generally regarded as highly toxic and is not recommended for self-treatment or recreational use.

Habitat and cultivation: native to the Americas, Datura has become widespread in warm regions worldwide as ornamentals and escapees. They favor sunny locations and well-drained soil. See also thorn apple, devil's trumpet, tropane alkaloids.