Hairy Thorn-apple
Datura wrightii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Datura wrightii is a native desert wildflower found in New Mexico and Texas that produces large white trumpet-shaped blooms from June through September. This drought-tolerant plant attracts night-flying moths and other pollinators.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
ME, NM, TX
Pollinators
moths, bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Datura wrightii is a large annual with trumpet-shaped white flowers that bloom from summer into fall. This southwestern native produces dramatic 4-6 inch blooms that open in the evening and attract night-flying pollinators.
Growing Hairy Thorn-apple
Grow Hairy Thorn-apple in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 18 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hairy Thorn-apple takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- All parts extremely toxic to humans and pets
- Common name includes 'thorn-apple' suggesting aggressive appearance
Wildlife value
The large white flowers are specifically adapted to attract sphinx moths and other nocturnal pollinators. Bees and beetles also visit the blooms during daytime hours.
Common questions
- When does Datura wrightii bloom?
- Datura wrightii blooms from June through September, producing large white trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the evening.
- Where is Datura wrightii native?
- Datura wrightii is native to the southwestern United States, including New Mexico and Texas, where it grows in desert and semi-desert regions.
- What pollinators visit Datura wrightii?
- Moths, bees, and beetles are attracted to Datura wrightii flowers, with night-flying moths being particularly important pollinators for the evening-blooming flowers.
- Is Hairy Thorn-apple HOA-friendly?
- Hairy 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 Hairy 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