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Downy thorn-apple

How to identify Downy thorn-apple (Datura innoxia)

Downy thorn-apple, also known as Lovache, Angel's trumpet, Indian-apple

Downy thorn-apple is recognized by its downy foliage and can grow up to a height of 3 feet (91 cm) with an equal spread. This plant thrives in arid conditions, favoring sandy or gravelly soils. It is part of the Nightshade family, featuring large, tubular flowers that bloom at night. The flowers are typically white, which contrast against the plant's soft, grayish-green leaves. All components of downy thorn-apple are known to be highly toxic and should never be ingested.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Annual, Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous, Evergreen

Quickly Identify Downy thorn-apple

1

Large, tubular flowers measuring 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) in length, with colors ranging from cream to pink to lavender.

2

Wavy-margined, dark green leaves up to 8 inches (20 cm) long, soft to touch with a downy texture.

3

Spiny fruit capsule averaging 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter, turning from green to brownish-yellow upon maturity.

4

Plant grows up to 3 feet (91 cm) tall, thrives in arid conditions with toxic foliage and white tubular night-blooming flowers.

5

Distinct flower fragrance, opening elegantly from mid-summer to first frost, attracting pollinators during late afternoons and cloudy days.

Downy thorn-appleDowny thorn-appleDowny thorn-appleDowny thorn-appleDowny thorn-apple

Detailed Traits of Downy thorn-apple

Leaf Features

The leaves of downy thorn-apple are wavy-margined and dark green, reaching up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. They have a distinct downy texture, giving them a soft, slightly fuzzy feel. The leaves are broadly ovate to oblong in shape, with a prominent central vein and secondary veins that create a symmetrical pattern. The wavy edges and the pubescent surface are key identifying features for this plant.

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Flower Features

The flowers of downy thorn-apple are strikingly large, tubular forms measuring approximately 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) in length. They exhibit a range of colors, including cream, pink, and lavender. These exquisite single or double upward-facing trumpet-shaped flowers reach about 7 inches (18 cm) in length and 4 inches (10 cm) wide at the mouth. Notable for their sweetly overpowering fragrance, these blossoms appear from mid-summer to first frost, opening elegantly in late afternoon and during cloudy days.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of downy thorn-apple is a spiny, ovoid capsule, typically measuring around 2 inches (5 cm) in length. It is green when immature and turns brown as it matures. The capsule splits open irregularly when ripe to disperse black, kidney-shaped seeds. The exterior is covered in sharp spines, giving it a distinct, prickly texture. Each fruit contains numerous seeds that are long-lived, capable of remaining dormant in the soil for many years.

Downy thorn-apple Fruit image
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Key Facts About Downy thorn-apple

Attributes of Downy thorn-apple
Lifespan
Annual, Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
60 cm to 1.5 m
Flower Color
White
Pink
Cream
Purple
Fruit Color
Green
Stem Color
Green
Yellow
Leaf type
Deciduous, Evergreen
The Toxicity of Downy thorn-apple
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Scientific Classification of Downy thorn-apple

Species
Downy thorn-apple (Datura innoxia)
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Distribution Map of Downy thorn-apple

Downy thorn-apple is native to regions of Central and South America, thriving in a warm climate. This plant has spread across several continents, establishing a presence in areas of Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. While downy thorn-apple has adapted to new territories, in some regions such as Eastern Africa and parts of Asia, it is sometimes thought to be invasive and may have an impact on ecosystems.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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