Angel Trumpet Moonflower Poisonous Flowers

Yes, both Angel’s Trumpet and Moonflower are indeed poisonous flowers. Each has its own unique characteristics and toxic properties.

1. Angel’s Trumpet (Genus: Brugmansia):

• Appearance: Known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers that hang downward. These flowers can come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, pink, and orange.
• Toxicity: All parts of the plant are highly toxic, especially the seeds and flowers. They contain tropane alkaloids such as scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine.
• Symptoms of Poisoning: Ingesting parts of this plant can lead to symptoms such as hallucinations, dilated pupils, dry mouth, muscle weakness, increased heart rate, and in severe cases, paralysis or death.
• Caution: Even handling the plant can transfer its toxic compounds; hence, it’s important to wash hands thoroughly after contact.

2. Moonflower (Genus: Ipomoea or Datura):

• Appearance: There are different plants commonly referred to as “Moonflower.” Ipomoea alba has large white flowers that bloom at night, giving it the name “Moonflower.” However, Datura species are also referred to by this name and share similar toxic properties to Angel’s Trumpet. Datura plants have trumpet-shaped flowers that can be white or purple.
• Toxicity (Ipomoea alba): While the ornamental Moonflower vine (Ipomoea alba) is not considered highly toxic like Datura, it still should be handled with care. Seeds of some Ipomoea species might contain lysergic acid derivatives which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
• Toxicity (Datura species): Similar to Angel’s Trumpet, all parts of the Datura plant are highly toxic. They also contain tropane alkaloids.
• Symptoms of Poisoning: Ingestion can cause symptoms like confusion, hallucinations, delirium, rapid heart rate, respiratory depression, and in severe cases, death.

General Advice

• Avoid Ingestion: Never ingest any part of these plants. They should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
• Wear Gloves: When handling these plants, it’s advisable to wear gloves to avoid skin contact with toxic compounds. Always wash hands thoroughly afterward.
• Seek Medical Help: If poisoning is suspected, contact a poison control center or seek medical attention immediately.

While these plants can be beautiful and intriguing, their toxic nature requires careful handling and respect.