SafePlants

Datura discolor: Desert Thorn-Apple

Datura discolor, commonly known as the desert thorn-apple, is an intriguing plant with a rich history and unique adaptations. This page will delve into its botanical characteristics, ecological role, and other fascinating aspects.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that all parts of thorn-apple (a common name for Datura species) are considered toxic.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that all parts of thorn-apple (a common name for Datura species) are considered toxic.
• The plant is also called thorn-apple which may refer to sharp features.

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Datura discolor Bernh.
• Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Common Names

• Desert Thorn-Apple
• Moonflower
• Jimsonweed
• Devil's Weed
• Hell's Bells
• Thorn-Apple

Distribution and Habitat

• Datura discolor is native to the Sonoran Desert of western North America.
• It is commonly found in deserts, riparian zones, rocky areas, disturbed grounds, and sandy soils.

Morphological Characteristics

• Datura discolor is an herbaceous annual plant that typically grows to about 60 cm in height or as a small shrub reaching 2-5 feet in height.
• It produces large, tubular, pure white flowers (up to 6 inches or 16 cm long) that open in the early evening and wither the following day. The flowers feature a center shaded violet or purple.

Ecological Role

• The sweet, lily-scented flowers attract pollinating moths with their indigo blue nectar-filled centers.

Quirky Facts

• The name "discolor" refers to a variation in color of some sort.
• Each desert thorn-apple flower only opens for a single night.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Datura discolor.
• Encyclopedia Britannica has an article on Desert Thorn Apple.