Although when flowering Jimson-weed (Datura stramonium) can be considered attractive with its large trumpet-shaped violet or white flowers, when it is fruiting (as shown in the picture) it gives a different impression. Also called thorn apple, for obvious reasons, this plant is quite poisonous. It is an annual that can become invasive because each one of its fruits releases hundreds of seeds when it dries and ruptures. In summer, its flowers open at night and are pollinated by Sphinx moths. According to the Native Plant Trust facts on this species, on the plus side, this plant can be used for bioremediation to remove TNT from explosive waste sites!
(Submitted by Lynn Knight. November 12, 2023)
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