I Speak For The Trees

Datrua spp, growing in the sand near Ibarra, Imbabura Province.  Technically, Datura will grow in any soil provided that there is a little bit of moisture, however it seems to prefer the excellent drainage provided by sand.  Datura, or Jimsonweed, is probably best known for its ethnogenic properties as popularized by gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson.  In reality, Jimsonweed is one of the more toxic members of the famously toxic Solanaceae, which also includes Deadly Nightshade.  As mentioned above, it will grow in almost any soil provided that it gets full sun and a bit of water.  All parts of the plant give off a foul odour when crushed.  Propagation is by seed and vegetative cutting.

The active chemicals in Datrua are similar to those found in its close relative, Brugmansia - namely, atropine, scopalamine, and hyoscyamine.  These chemicals are found in nearly all parts of the plant, and produce delirious states and occasionally very serious poisoning in humans.  The general symptoms of intoxication are true delirium - an inability to distinguish reality from fantasy, sweating, hyperthermia, irregular heartbeat, inexplicable and often violent behaviour, and severe photophobia.  Incan warriors were reputedly given a mixture of Datura and other herbs to induce a state similar to that experienced by Scandinavian Berzerkers.  It is a very unpredictable and toxic herb, and ingestion should be avoided.