Datura quercifolia

Datura quercifolia, commonly known as the oak-leaf thorn-apple or the Chinese thorn-apple, is a small shrub in the genus Datura. It can grow within dry or moist soils and requires large amount of sunlight to grow.

The species was first described in 1818 by Alexander von Humboldt. Its leaves resemble oak leaves, hence the name quercifolia. It grows in Mexico and the Southwestern United States, where it is a ground cover or an upright bush up to 3 ft. tall. It produces green colored fruit with long sharp spikes or spines. The unremarkable light blue funnel-shaped flowers are less than 2 in. long. Except for its unusual leaves, Datura quercifolia does not have much ornamental value^[1]

Toxicity

All parts of Datura plants contain dangerous levels of poison and may be fatal if ingested by humans or other animals, including livestock and pets. In some places it is prohibited to buy, sell or cultivate Datura plants.^[1]

See also

• Datura

References

External links

• Photographs of Datura quercifolia
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service PLANTS Profile: Datura quercifolia Kunth
• USDA Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN): Datura quercifolia Kunth
• Datura quercifolia from Plants for the Future