Downy Thorn-Apple Datura innoxia

Downy thorn-apple is a tender herbaceous perennial, often grown as an annual, with a 3 foot spread. In its native environment of the Southwestern United States, It is a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It is usually found in sandy or gravelly dry open places. Several places now consider the plant to be invasive. All parts are extremely toxic if consumed.

The plant displays 7 to 8 inch cream, pink, and lavender tubular flowers, which open in the evening, but only last to late afternoon of the next day. Flowers will bloom intermittently from mid-summer to frost. It is planted throughout the world as an ornamental for its attractive large leaves and flowers. Flowers are followed by downy, spherical fruit covered with stiff spines, hence the common name of downy thorn apple.

Downy thorn-apple tolerates average soil, even alkaline or sandy soil, but prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It does not do well in full shade. It is winter hardy to USDA Zone 9 to 10. Most plantings of downy thorn apple are nursery plants; however, it can be started indoors from seeds about 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost and set plants out after that date. Plants tend to sprawl and should be spaced about 3 feet apart or staked and supported. Deadheading flowers is not necessary, but self-seeding may occur if the plants are not deadheaded. Seeds can be collected and saved for planting in the following spring. Container plants can be cut back and overwintered indoors in a sunny window.

Species of Datura are sometimes confused with those of Brugmansia (also called angel's trumpet), but Datura flowers face upward, whereas Brugmansia flowers are pendulous.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: Extremely susceptible to the viruses that afflict the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Downy thorn-apple should not be grown near potatoes or tomatoes.