Datura metel

RHS Plant Profile
downy thorn apple

Other common names

downy thorn apple, horn of plenty, yellow-flowered thorn apple

Synonyms

Brugmansia chlorantha (Hook.) Melliss., Datura chlorantha

Herbaceous Perennial

An upright, tender, short-lived or shrubby perennial to around 1.8m in height with dark green foliage. Trumpet shaped flowers are white with cream, yellow, red or violet corolla, appearing in summer. They can be single of double and are fragrant at night. Fruits are green and nobbled. An interesting addition to a tropical planting scheme

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Solanaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
TOXIC if eaten; skin irritant; avoid eye contact. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Datura can be large annuals or short-lived perennials, with simple, coarsely toothed leaves and often fragrant, funnel-shaped white or purple flowers followed by spiny seed-capsules
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moisture retentive, well-drained soil with full sun

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to a virus