Datura metel traces its origins to the disturbed soils and river sands stretching from Colombia northward into Texas, and it carries that heat-seeking character into any garden bold enough to accommodate it. Growing three to four feet tall and wide, its large, gray-green leaves give the plant a substantial, almost architectural presence through the day. But the real performance begins at evening, when the unusual cigar-shaped buds unravel into wide, fragrant trumpets — upright-facing where its cousin Brugmansia hangs downward — in shades that range from cream to deep violet depending on cultivar.

For gardeners north of zone 9, this is annual territory: start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before last frost, then plant out in full sun to part shade in rich, well-drained soil. Plants sprawl and benefit from three-foot spacing or some support. They can self-seed if spent flowers are left, and container specimens can be cut back and overwintered on a bright indoor windowsill. Use it as the centerpiece of a nighttime garden or a patio container where the fragrance can be appreciated after dark. All parts are highly toxic if ingested.