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Moon Vine vs. Moon Flower (Datura): Identification and Toxicity

Distinguishing Two Night‑Blooming Plants

A gardener planted seeds from a hull with stickers, unsure whether it’s moon vine or moon flower.

Key Differences

Feature	Moon Vine (Ipomoea alba)	Moon Flower / Datura (Thornapple, Jimsonweed, Angel’s Trumpet)
Botanical family	Convolvulaceae (morning glory)	Solanaceae (nightshade)
Seed appearance	Cluster of 3‑4, corn‑kernel‑like, in berry‑like fruit (black/dark brown)	Resemble tomato seeds (same family)
Growth habit	Short‑lived perennial in warm climates; giant night‑blooming morning glory	Annual or tender perennial; shrubby

Toxicity

Both are toxic if ingested. Datura is notoriously poisonous (hallucinogenic, potentially lethal). Moon vine also toxic. Keep away from children and pets. Texas A&M poisonous plant list: plantanswers.tamu.edu.

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