Datura wrightii aka Sacred Thorn Apple

Datura wrightii, or sacred datura, belongs to the nightshade family. Its native range spans the south-central United States and northern Mexico. It grows on open ground, disturbed sites, and roadsides. Outside this range, people have introduced it across many regions. These include parts of Europe, Australia, and the United States. Native Americans used the plant in medicine and religious rites.

This sprawling plant forms a broad mound with upright stems. Garden plants reach 2–5 feet [0.61–1.52 metres] tall. They spread 3–6 feet [0.91–1.83 metres] wide. It lives as a short-lived perennial in warm southern areas. In colder northern areas, gardeners grow it as an annual. Fine hairs cover its gray-green stems and soft leaves. The simple leaves grow alternately and have smooth edges. Their upper sides are green, with gray-green undersides. Leaves reach 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] long and smell bad when crushed.

Large, scented flowers face upward and open in the evening. Each bloom fades by noon on the following day. The white trumpets may carry a purple tint. They reach about 0.67 feet [0.20 metres] long. Their width can reach 0.5 feet [0.15 metres]. Flowers appear from May through November. The Carolina sphinx moth serves as the main pollinator. Its caterpillars also feed on this plant. Round, spiny capsules follow the flowers and turn brown. Ripe capsules split apart and release black seeds.

Grow sacred datura in full sun and well-drained soil. It also accepts partial shade. Acidic sand, loam, and clay can all suit it. It tolerates soil that becomes dry, including very dry conditions. The listed USDA hardiness range is zones 9–11. Freezing weather kills the top growth. A tuberous root can produce new growth the next spring. Seeds provide the recommended way to raise new plants. Its flowers suit borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, and night gardens. Deer tend to leave it alone. No major insect pests or diseases are reported.

Every part is poisonous when eaten, so none is food. The plant poses a risk to both people and pets. Its tropane alkaloids include atropine and hyoscyamine. Poisoning can cause hallucinations, a rapid pulse, convulsions, and coma. Sap may also irritate the skin. Wear gloves and protective clothes when handling it. Keep children and pets away from the plant. Its past medicinal use does not make it safe to consume.