Oak Leaf Datura, Chinese thorn-apple
Datura quercifolia
Family: Solanaceae
What it is like
Datura quercifolia is a ANNUAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
Roadsides, 1200 - 1800 metres in Arizona.
South-western N. America - Arizona to Mexico.
Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed.
Countries/locations it is found in
Central America, Mexico, North America, USA.
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Fruit - ground up and mixed with clay ( the clay probably has a neutralizing effect on the toxins). A very toxic plant, its use cannot be recommended. The fruit is about 7cm long and 6cm wide. A stupefying beverage is made from the leaves and roots.
Drink: not including plant saps, tea or coffee substitutes.
Medicine
Rating: 3
The whole plant is narcotic. It has been used in the past to deaden pain, treat insomnia etc, but any use of this plant should only be carried out under the supervision of a qualified practitioner since the difference between the medicinal dose and a toxic dose is very small.
Narcotic: Relieves pain, induces drowsiness and gives a sense of well-being.
Other
Rating: 0
Unlike Datura inoxia Datura quercifolia does not have much ornamental value.
How it is grown
Prefers a rich light sandy soil and an open sunny position. Grows best in a fertile calcareous soil. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. This species is extremely susceptible to the various viruses that afflict the potato family (Solanaceae), it can act as a centre of infection so should not be grown near potatoes or tomatoes. Closely related to D. stramonium.
Propagating it: Sow the seed in individual pots in early spring in a greenhouse. Put 3 or 4 seeds in each pot and thin if necessary to the best plant. The seed usually germinates in 3 - 6 weeks at 15°c. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Especially in areas with hot summers, it is worthwhile trying a sowing outdoors in situ in mid to late spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist
Things to keep in mind
All members of this genus contain narcotics and are very poisonous, even in small doses.
This plant can be weedy or invasive.
Its other names
Local names
Oak-leaf thorn-apple, Chinese thorn-apple, Oak leaf datura.