Desert Thorn-apple
Datura discolor
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA
Pollinators
moths, bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Desert thorn-apple is an annual wildflower that produces large, showy white trumpet-shaped blooms from late spring through fall. This native plant grows as a bushy forb with broad leaves and can self-seed readily in suitable conditions. The flowers are fragrant and open in the evening, making it particularly attractive during summer evenings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Desert Thorn-apple takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- All parts of plant are toxic if ingested
- Can appear weedy or unkempt as annual
- May self-seed aggressively
Wildlife value
The large, fragrant flowers attract night-flying moths as primary pollinators, along with bees and beetles during daytime hours. This plant provides important nectar sources during the hot summer months when fewer plants are blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Desert Thorn-apple need?
- Desert Thorn-apple grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Desert Thorn-apple bloom?
- Desert Thorn-apple blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Desert Thorn-apple native?
- Desert Thorn-apple (Datura discolor) is native to AZ, CA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Desert Thorn-apple attract?
- Desert Thorn-apple draws moths, bees, and beetles.
- Is Desert Thorn-apple HOA-friendly?
- Desert Thorn-apple takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Desert Thorn-apple? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz