SPECIALIST DEVILS TRUMPET CONTROL SERVICES

OUR SPECIALIST CONTROL SERVICES WILL TREAT OR ERADICATE THIS SPECIES. TO FIND OUT IF YOU HAVE Devils trumpet USE OUR FREE ID TOOL OR BOOK A SURVEY

treatment & removal

The best method of control is herbicide application when the plant is growing but just before it starts to flower.

To find out the best way to remove Devils trumpet and the best time of year to have treatment carried out get in touch.

WHY IS Devils trumpet  A PROBLEM?

Aside from its invasive growth, and large coverage this plant is highly toxic – in fact all parts of the plant are toxic to humans and animals, and with pretty flowers and a pleasant smell can be deceiving.

ABOUT Devils trumpet

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Datura stramonium
ORIGIN: Central America

Introduced to the UK around 1662, Devils trumpet, from the Datura genus, also known as thorn apple, devils apple, jimson weed and even devils snare. All parts are highly toxic. The flower opens at night to attract moths. It has a fast growth rate that outcompetes native flora. Its seedbank longevity is 3-5 years. 

Along with deadly nightshade and mandrake it comes under the “witches weed category” as it is believed witches made potions from this plant.

• A shrub like tender perennial with flowers that have a strong honeysuckle aroma.
• Large, coarsely toothed, oval, green leaves.
• White, trumpet-shaped flowers, sometimes flushed purple, appear in July to October, followed by spiny fruit up to 5cm long.
• Grows up to 1.5m.
• The stem forks off into branches with each fork forming a leaf and a single, erect flower.
• Thick fibrous root system.

HABITAT

Devils trumpet is found on roadsides and on wasteland, but is also grown in gardens. It is a hardy plant however has been known to die off in extreme frosts.

IMPACT: MEDIUM

An invasive plant that can outcompete native plants.

TOXICITY: HIGH

Devils trumpet is highly toxic if eaten, it is also a skin irritant, avoid eye contact. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Datura stramonium is a hallucinogenic plant which is a member of belladona alkaloids. The toxic effects of Datura stramonium most often include visual and auditory hallucinations, confusion and agitation.