Frequently (and not so frequently) Asked Questions
BRIEF: Could you tell me the scientific name of this plant?
QUESTION:
Several of my neighbors have a plant they call a moon flower. It grows on a
thick vine that can either climb or spread acrooss the yard. It is a very large
plant and can cover an immense area. The flowers are huge and white, they only
bloom in the evening and at night. They resemble an extemely large morning
glory. In the fall the plant developes a large hollow ball that has razor
sharp spines and contains the seeds inside. Are you familiar with the plant I
am describing? If so, I would like to know the actual scientific name of it.
I would also like to know if it is toxic since one of my kittens ate some it
and passed away shortly afterward. Any information or websites you could
recommend would be very
helpful.
ANSWER:
Although I usually associate the common name Moonflower with one of the morning
glory (Impomea) species, I think you have described a species of Datura or
closely related genus. These latter genera include Jimsonweed and angel's
trumpet. Seeds from these plants are quite deadly in sufficient dosages, and
have caused both human and animal deaths and illnesses. Unfortunately, in
addition to death and some horrible discomfort, they are also hallucinogenic, so
people have tried to use them for recreational purposes. Unfortunately, the
poor judgement that leads to that sort of behavior can contribute to taking
lethal amounts, as
well.
I don't know if this had anything to do with your cat's death (we'll never know
that for sure), but it is possible.