I was surprised to find this plant growing in my decomposed granite pathway. I guess it makes sense, since the plant prefers good drainage. I actually saw the little plant earlier this spring and considered pulling it numerous times, but thought it looked interesting enough, so I let it go to see what it would turn out to be. I'm glad I left it alone.
I was mostly surprised to find the wildflower growing because I haven't seen any of these types of flowers around my neighborhood, so I'm curious how it got into my garden. Most likely from some bird. I'm thankful for the new (and free) plant addition to my garden.
The datura has white, trumpet-shaped flowers that opening in the evening and wither by mid-morning.
The bloom buds almost look like little okra veggies...but DO NOT EAT THEM! This entire plant is poisonous! It is considered a narcotic that was used for medicinal purposes by Aztecs, but when prepared improperly is lethal. Thankfully, my dogs do not show any interest in eating anything in the garden besides grass (and little critters), so I'll be keeping this in the garden, for now.
The stems are a beautiful, velvety purple.
When the blooms open at night, it is a very fragrant plant. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center describes it as a "rank-smelling plant." I have to say I disagree. While very pungent, I find the fragrance very lovely.
Enjoying the last of the bloom before it wilts in the morning light...
The seed pods are interesting spiky little balls. As I understand it, they are full of many seeds that reseed very easily. However, it seems I'll have to wait until early fall once the seeds are ready to collect. I'd love to put this plant in some other places in my garden and preferably out of the pathway.
