Datura wrightii (Sacred Datura)

Datura wrightii (Sacred Datura) is a large, sprawling, tender perennial often grown as an annual, boasting very large, upward-facing white trumpets, up to 8 in. long (20 cm), sometimes tinged purple. Blooming from late spring to frost, the beautiful blossoms open in the late afternoon and last until noon the following day. Fragrant, the flowers are rich in nectar and attract sphink or hawk moths. They give way to globe-shaped capsules covered with spines that split open when ripe to release their numerous seeds. The dense foliage of large, velvety, dark green leaves is covered with fine, downy hairs. It exudes an unpleasant odor when bruised or crushed. Sacred datura dies back to the ground after winter freezes but resprouts with the return of warm weather. Datura is often confused with Brugmansia. However, the latter has pendant trumpets that last for several days and woody stems. Sacred Datura can easily be incorporated into a water-wise landscape. Place it where the fragrance of its spectacular desert flowers and moth activity can be enjoyed.

• Grows up to 4-5 ft. tall and wide (120-150 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soils.
• Perfect for beds and borders, Mediterranean gardens or containers.
• May be grown from seed.
• Virtually pest and disease-free.
• Native from Central California to northern Mexico; east across the Southwest to Texas.
• All parts are highly toxic if ingested and sap may be an irritant