Chinese thorn-apple (Datura quercifolia)

Also known as: Oak-leaved Datura, Thorn Apple

The small shrub known as the Chinese thorn-apple is Datura quercifolia. It is often cultivated for its decorative leaves but is toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation upon contact.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Chinese thorn-apple

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

2 to 3 feet (about 0.6 to 0.9 meters)

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4.5 cm to 6 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Chinese thorn-apple

Quickly Identify Chinese thorn-apple

Datura quercifolia can be identified by its oak-like, deeply lobed leaves, and large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically white or pale purple.

Scientific Classification of Chinese thorn-apple

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Solanales

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Thornapples

Species

Chinese thorn-apple

Planting and Growing of Chinese thorn-apple

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Chinese thorn-apple?

For Datura quercifolia, water thoroughly so that the entire root ball is moistened. The plant benefits from deep watering, allowing the water to reach roots located deeper in the soil. This approach ensures that the roots can efficiently access water without the risk of sitting in stagnant water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Chinese thorn-apple? ›

What should I do if my Chinese thorn-apple is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Chinese thorn-apple? ›

How to save an overwatered Chinese thorn-apple? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Chinese thorn-apple?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Datura quercifolia flourishes best under full sun to partial sun conditions, benefiting from 6-8 hours of sun exposure. This light range facilitates optimal flowering and strong, healthy foliage.

How much sun does Datura quercifolia need daily? ›

What if my location does not have full daylight exposure? ›

Can I grow Datura quercifolia indoors? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Chinese thorn-apple?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

Datura quercifolia thrives best in a temperature range of 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This range supports optimal growth and flowering. Maintaining this ideal range helps maximize the plant's potential and resilience to stress.

What Soil is Best for Chinese thorn-apple?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Datura quercifolia thrives in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Adequate drainage ensures roots receive necessary oxygen, promoting vigorous growth and vibrant flowering. Rich soil boosts Datura's growth, providing ample nutrients for its large leaves and flowers. Incorporate organic matter to maintain fertility and soil structure. Maintain moderate soil moisture to support Datura's lush foliage. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as excess moisture can lead to root diseases and hinder plant development.

How to Fertilize Chinese thorn-apple?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

The recommended fertilizer amount for Datura quercifolia is moderate. It requires a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer mixed at half the recommended strength, about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. For slow-release fertilizers, apply one tablespoon per plant, ensuring even distribution around the root zone.

How to Prune Chinese thorn-apple?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by sterilizing your pruning shears to prevent disease. Identify dead, damaged, or diseased branches and remove them first. Trim back any wayward or excessively long branches to maintain shape. Always make cuts just above a node to promote healthy growth. To give Datura quercifolia a desirable shape, prune lightly and strategically. Focus on encouraging a bushier appearance by cutting back long stems to promote lateral growth. Use your shears to remove spindly or unattractive growth to enhance its aesthetic appeal. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Chinese thorn-apple plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Collect seeds from mature Datura quercifolia pods once they have dried on the plant. This ensures the seeds are fully developed and ready for germination.

Use a well-draining potting mix for sowing seeds or planting cuttings. The soil should be light, airy, and capable of retaining some moisture while allowing excess water to drain away.

For seed propagation, scatter seeds over the soil surface and lightly cover them. For cuttings, insert them into the soil deep enough to support the cutting upright and cover a few leaf nodes to encourage root development.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Chinese thorn-apple plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repot Datura quercifolia when the roots begin to outgrow the current pot, which can lead to root circling or coming out of drainage holes. Another signal is when water drains too quickly or the plant shows signs of stunted growth. Spring or early summer is ideal in order to minimize stress and leverage warm weather for active growth.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots. The larger pot size supports root expansion and promotes healthier plant growth by providing ample room.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture while allowing excess water to escape. This kind of soil mix prevents root rot and promotes healthy root development, ensuring the Datura thrives in its new environment.

Toxicity

Ingestion, Inhalation, Skin Absorption

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.