Difference between Datura and Datura Flower
When seeing Datura and Datura Flower in the wild or at horticultural markets, many people often get confused due to their similar names. In fact, these two plants not only belong to different families but also hide fatal toxicity. This article will introduce you to the "deadly twins" through three core differences.
Difference in Flower Shape
Datura: Funnel-shaped Yellow and White Flowers
The flowers of Datura, belonging to the Solanaceae family, are typically funnel-shaped with five-petaled flowers that often show a gradient of yellow and white, and the inside of the flower tube has purple veins. Its blooming season is concentrated in summer and autumn, with flower diameters reaching up to 10cm, possessing the typical floral characteristics of Solanaceae plants.
Datura Flower: Inverted White Flower Umbel
Datura Flower, also known as white Lycoris, has an umbel that can carry 5-7 pure white flowers. The petals are strongly inverted, resembling dragon's claws, and combined with a 50cm tall erect stem, they form a unique ghostly aesthetics. Each flower has a lifespan of only 3 days, but the overall blooming period can last for half a month.
Difference in Leaves and Plant Characteristics
Wide Leaf System of Datura
Difference between Datura and Datura Flower
The Datura plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, with broad-ovate leaves that have a length-to-width ratio close to 1:1, and edges that present regular wavy shallow lobes. The stems are thick and branched, with the whole plant covered in short villi, giving it a rough feel when touched.
Narrow Leaf Structure of Datura Flower
The linear leaves of Datura Flower are less than 1cm wide but can reach 30cm in length, arranged in a basal rosette. The underground bulb has a diameter of about 5cm, covered with purplish-brown membranous skin, which contrasts sharply with the fibrous root system of Datura.
Difference in Family and Toxicity Mechanism
Characteristics of Solanaceae Datura
Datura contains tropane alkaloids such as atropine, which are neurotoxic, with the seeds being the most toxic, capable of causing hallucinations with just three seeds. Common varieties include purple Datura and thornless Datura, mostly found in temperate regions on roadsides and wastelands.
Bulbous Plant of Amaryllidaceae
The bulbs of Datura Flower contain lycorine, which can cause central nervous system paralysis if ingested. As a white variety of the red spider lily, its characteristic of "flowers and leaves never meeting" has led to many cultural images, commonly found in moist and shady areas around cemeteries.
This pair of dangerous sisters in the plant world hides their deadly nature behind their beautiful appearance. When identifying them, not only should you observe the characteristics of the flowers and leaves, but also be alert to their growing environment - Datura prefers sunny and drought-resistant conditions, while Datura Flower favors shady and moist environments. Whether for medicinal or ornamental purposes, always wear gloves when handling them, and do not be deceived by their deadly beauty.