About
Datura stramonium, the thorn apple, is a symmetrically branched annual found in waste ground, roadsides and disturbed habitats, with sizeable, coarsely toothed, oval, green leaves. White, trumpet-shaped flowers, sometimes flushed purple, appear from July to October, followed by distinctively spiny fruits to 5 cm long. Widely naturalised and of historical medicinal use, though all parts are highly toxic.
About the genus
Datura, the thorn apples, are large, coarse annuals and short-lived perennials with simple, coarsely toothed leaves and large, often fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers in white, yellow or purple, followed by spiny seed capsules. All parts are highly toxic. Grown as ornamental plants in sheltered, frost-free conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical
Native toCosmopolitan
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten, skin irritant, avoid eye contact. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. 5357,dauphinea-brevilabra,Dauphinea brevilabra,,Dauphinea brevilabra is a small perennial in the family Campanulaceae producing the characteristic tufted foliage and small flowers of the genus. A specialist plant for a cool
Care notes
CultivationAn exotic-looking plant that may turn up unexpectedly in gardens, often from bird seed. Can be used for summer bedding in fertile, well-drained soil with full sun. Pull plants out before the seed capsules split to prevent self seeding. See thorn apple for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a virus