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Brugmansia waymanni, Datura guayaquilensis, Datura humilis, Datura inoxia, Datura laevis, Datura metel, Datura meteloides, Datura wagmanni
Downy thorn-apple, Indian-apple, lovache, moonflower, nacazcul, Prickly bur, sacred datura, Sakaran, tolguache, toloache, toloatzin
Datura innoxia, also known as pricklyburr or recurved thornapple, is a annual shrub native to North and South America. It has naturalized in many parts of the world, including the Middle East.
In Qatar, Datura innoxia is considered an invasive weed and has been found growing wild in various areas, particularly in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, construction sites, and agricultural fields. The plant thrives in Qatar's arid climate and can grow up to 1 meter tall, producing showy white or purple flowers and spiny fruit.
Studies have reported the presence of Datura innoxia in Qatar, highlighting its potential toxicity to humans and animals due to its tropane alkaloid content. Local authorities have warned against handling or ingesting the plant, as it can cause serious health problems, including hallucinations, delirium, and even death.
Overall, while Datura innoxia is an attractive plant with showy flowers, its invasive nature and toxicity make it a concern for environmental and public health in Qatar.
Prickly bur (Datura innoxia) on Sahat Al Luqta Street near crossing with Al Abeer Street in Al Luqta area. Doha, Qatar, March 18, 2015
Sahat Al Luqta Street, Doha, Qatar
Seedling of jimsonweed (Datura innoxia) on Al Shatt Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, January 18, 2016Al Shatt St, Doha, Qatar
Moonflower (Datura innoxia) on waste ground on Al Shatt Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, January 26, 2016Al Shatt St, Doha, Qatar
Bud of moonflower (Datura innoxia) on waste ground on Al Shatt Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, January 26, 2016Al Shatt St, Doha, QatarPrickly bur (Datura innoxia) was observed on Sahat Al Luqta Street in the Al Luqta area of Doha, Qatar on March 18, 2015. In the Onaiza area, a seedling of jimsonweed (Datura innoxia) was spotted on Al Shatt Street on January 18, 2016. Later that month, on January 26, 2016, moonflower (Datura innoxia) was found growing on waste ground on the same street, with both mature plants and buds present. These observations suggest that Datura innoxia is able to grow in various areas of Doha, including urban waste grounds and streets. The plant's presence was noted during different times of year, indicating its ability to thrive in Qatar's environment. The species was observed in different stages of growth, from seedlings to mature plants with buds.
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QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.