Datura

Jimsonweed is a branching forb that blooms with large, white, fragrant, trumpet-like flowers from evening through the morning. The wilted flowers are somewhat unsightly in the afternoon but extremely showy in the evening and morning. All parts of the plant are highly toxic.


Extracts from this plant and its relatives are narcotic and potentially lethal if ingested. The narcotic properties of these species have been known since before recorded history, and they once played an essential role in the religious ceremonies of southwestern Indians.

This plant's species name honors Charles Wright, 1811-1885, a worldwide botanical collector who worked mainly in Texas (1837-1852), Cuba, and his native Connecticut.