Alien Invasives

Downy Thorn Apple (Datura innoxia)

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05 October 2016

Downy Thorn Apple (Datura innoxia)

The Downy Thorn Apple is a bushy plant growing up to 2 metres high with grey-velvety leaves that turn dark green and less velvety with age. The leaves have prominent veins and an unpleasant smell. Solitary white, funnel-shaped flowers appear from July to October, followed by brown hardened fruit capsules densely covered with slender spines up to 10mm long. The seeds are toxic to livestock and humans.

Other names
Hairy Thorn Apple, Moonflower (English)
Harige Stinkblaar (Afrikaans)
Invasive status
NEMBA Category 1b
CARA 2002 Category 1

Downy Thorn Apple
Originally from
North and Central America
Where is it a problem?
Found in scattered localities throughout South Africa
How does it spread?
Seed dispersal
Why is it a problem?
It competes with indigenous pioneer species and the seeds are highly toxic
Uses
Ornamental

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