Plant guide

Sacred Datura.

Datura wrightii

Pronounced duh-TOO-ruh RITE-ee-eye

Also known as Sacred Datura, Sacred thorn-apple, hairy thornapple, Western Jimson weed, Western Jimsonweed, hairy thorn-apple, hoary thorn-apple, recurved thorn-apple, sacred thorn-apple, sacred thornapple

This striking plant is known for its large, trumpet shaped flowers that bloom at night. It is a hardy perennial that thrives in warm, dry climates. You will love how its sweet fragrance fills the evening air.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Perennial shrub
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 7 to 14 days
Mature size: 3 to 5 feet tall
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Give this plant plenty of sun and well draining soil to keep it happy. Watch for wilting during extreme heat, which is a sign it needs a deep soak. Be careful when handling, as all parts of the plant are poisonous.

Watering: Water deeply once the top few inches of soil have dried out.
Feeding: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the active growing season.
Pruning: Trim back dead or damaged stems to encourage a bushier shape.
Repotting: Move to a larger container only if the roots become severely crowded.
Soil: Sandy or rocky, well draining soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 8.0

Safety

Pets: This plant is highly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

How to identify it

Large, white trumpet shaped flowers
Soft, velvety grey green leaves
Spiny, round seed pods
Strong, musky scent at night

Science

Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Datura
Order: Solanales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants toxic to cats and dogs

Is your sacred datura looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.